An Oath on a Son's Life

VANESSA

My heart hammered against my ribcage as Wesley stood there with that damning medallion dangling from his fingers, his entire body radiating smug satisfaction. The courtyard had descended into barely contained chaos – hushed accusations rippling through the crowd, anxious glances exchanged between pack leaders, warriors moving into defensive positions.

And at the center of it all stood Roman, his face carved from stone as he absorbed the weight of Wesley's accusation.

"Well, Alpha Vance?" Wesley pressed again, his voice carrying across the stunned gathering. "Your pack's medallion was found on rogues at our borders. Your colors identified on attackers. What explanation could you possibly have?"

I kept Fabian pressed close to my side, my arm around his shoulders. I could feel him trembling slightly, though whether from fear or anger, I couldn't tell.

"Mom," he whispered, looking up at me with worried eyes, "they're lying. Dad wouldn't do this."