Chapter 38

“Don’t test my patience Caleb,” Damon’s Alpha bark lacked his usual aura. Caleb stomped across the hospital room, his small fists balled up, cheeks flushed from holding back tears. “I said I’m not wearing it!” He pointed furiously at the folded hospital scrubs on the chair. “I’m not going outside dressed like some sick kid.” Damon pinched the bridge of his nose. “Caleb, clothes are clothes. Stop making a scene.” But the boy’s voice only rose higher, echoing against the sterile white walls. “You don’t get it! Mom always made sure I had nice clothes ready. She never forgot!” His words cracked, and the anger melted into hot, messy tears. Damon froze. The jab landed deeper than his son probably intended. For a heartbeat, guilt cut through the irritation, but he forced his tone firm. “Enough. If you keep yelling, we won’t go anywhere.” Instead of quieting, Caleb darted forward and wrapped both arms around his father’s waist, anchoring himself there like a wolf pup refusing to be left behind