Chapter 29

Osborne “Is that all?” I asked flatly. My father shook his head. “No. You still haven’t told me what I want to hear, Osborne. Your relationship with her must be cut! Besides, she is not your true mate— yet you went ahead and claimed her.” His voice was thick with anger. I knew if I didn’t shut this down, he would drag this argument endlessly. “Neither was my mom your true mate, Dad,” I snapped, rising to my feet, fury burning through me. “Just because you couldn’t fight for the woman you loved—because you sacrificed her for duty—doesn’t mean I’ll do the same. You couldn’t fight for her like a coward, but I am not like you!” I shouted. The words hit him like a blow. My father flinched, his eyes widening in shock. He hadn’t expected me to strike where it hurt most. And in that instant, I knew I had crossed a line. I exhaled sharply, trying to steady myself, turning my gaze away. But his voice came, low and tense, teeth clenched. “I am no coward, Osborne. I did what was best for my