Chapter 42

Chapter 42: A Brother's Stand and a Lover's Revelation

Lucian's POV

Blood roared in my ears as I lunged at Gareth again, all rational thought gone. My fists connected with his chest, but he was ready this time, blocking my next swing.

"You son of a bitch!" I snarled. "You think you can just marry her?"

Gareth ducked another punch and shoved me backward. "Have you completely lost your mind?"

"You're supposed to be my friend!" I grabbed him by his shirt collar, slamming him against the wall. "And you're going after my—"

I stopped myself, unable to say the word "mate." Not when I had denied that truth so publicly.

Gareth's eyes flashed dangerously. "Your what, exactly? The girl you humiliated? The one you rejected in front of everyone?"

His words hit harder than any physical blow. I tightened my grip on his shirt.

"That's not the point," I growled. "She's off limits."

"Says who? You?" Gareth laughed bitterly. "You don't get to reject her and then act possessive, Lucian."