Raul stood back, watching with barely concealed concern. He wanted answers as much as Lady Ulva did, but he knew better than to push.
Marrok didn't respond immediately, his gaze distant and lost in thought. His wolf—always a steady, commanding presence—shifted uneasily within him.
For the first time, Zeev seemed afraid… or was it worry?
"I need a moment alone," Marrok finally murmured, voice hoarse.
Ulva frowned. "What?"
Raul hesitated but nodded. "Alright. Call me if you need anything." With one last glance, he turned to leave, muttering something about preparing dinner.
Ulva, however, was reluctant to leave.
"Please, Ulva," Marrok insisted, his voice strained, almost pleading. "I need this."
She studied his face, searching for something—anything—that would give her a reason to stay. But the look in his eyes… it was the same one he wore whenever he was drowning in something too heavy to share.