TWENTY EIGHTH

Michael's POV

I sat in my office, Gabriel's words echoing in my mind. "Tell Ruth the truth, Michael. She deserves to know why you need Cynthia's father's alliances."

But I hesitated. How could I tell her that I was using her, that my feelings for her were secondary to the pack's needs?

Now, a week had passed since Ruth found out the truth. She had run away from the pack, and no one had seen her since. Sarah and Emily told me they hadn't seen her at work either.

I felt a pang of guilt and worry. Where is she? Hope she is, okay?

Just then, my aunt Michelle stormed into my office, her face stern. "Michael, I'm disappointed in you. Marrying Cynthia just for the pack's sake? It's wrong."

I sighed, knowing she was right. But what choice did I have?

Just then, my father returned from his trip, his face thunderous. "Michael, what's this I hear about you marrying Cynthia? Absolutely not!"

I knew he would object. No one liked Cynthia's father's pack. They were ruthless and power-hungry.

Sandra