Chapter 270

　　Derek's POV 　　Tabitha instinctively rested her hand on her belly, but then she quickly pulled it back, as if fearing that I would notice something. 　　She had no idea that this move just made it all the more suspicious. 　　As an Alpha, my observation skills were sharper than most, especially when it came to my mate, even though she was my ex-mate. 　　I walked closer to her, sensing her nerves. 　　I could tell her heartbeat was racing and her breath hitched, as these were the physiological responses she couldn't hide. 　　When my hand brushed her back, she tensed up like a deer caught in headlights. 　　"Something's off with her emotions," Leo chimed in my mind. 　　As my wolf, he was always able to perceive subtle emotional changes. 　　But even without his reminder, I could feel Tabitha wasn't her usual self. 　　After all, we were once mates, and such a profound connection couldn't be easily severed. 　　"What are you doing?" Tabitha shot out, her voice dripping with clear hostility and panic. 　　"Tabitha, you seem to be very afraid of me," I remarked, trying to soften my tone to keep her from getting more anxious. 　　Tabitha swallowed hard, her voice icy as she replied, "No, it's disgust. Derek, hasn't anyone ever told you that you're annoying? Since you're marrying Daphne, then stay away from me!" 　　I slowly bent down, looming over her. 　　Then I whispered in her ear, "Tabitha, you're nervous." 　　It wasn't a question but an affirmation. 　　I could smell her fear, which was a unique ability of us werewolves. 　　Then I saw a bead of cold sweat trickle down her forehead. 　　She pushed me away, saying, "Derek, I don't have time for your boring games. It's late, and I need to rest." With that, she pulled the covers over her and turned her back to me as usual. 　　She was seriously scared, so much so that she didn't even notice she was shaking slightly. 　　I didn't say a word, just gently pulled the covers, making it more snug around her, and gave her back a light pat. "I'll go now." 　　As I stood up, my eyes landed on the conspicuous vitamin C bottle on the nightstand, but I quickly looked away. 　　We werewolves were very sensitive to the smell of drugs, so I knew what was inside that bottle. But I didn't call her out on it. 　　Tabitha, hearing me walk out, sighed with relief. 　　Little did she know, I heard that sound loud and clear. 　　Leopold was right. She might be pregnant. 　　I walked down the hallway with a heavy heart, my gaze shifting to the far end. 　　A familiar figure darted by. 　　I walked faster, eager to see who it was. 　　Yet, hearing my footsteps, the person not only didn't stop but picked up the pace even more. 　　"Hold it!" I commanded firmly, my voice carrying an undeniable authority. 　　The person stopped in her tracks and turned around. Turned out it was Joanna, an Omega maid. She stood still and softly greeted me, her face pale, "Alpha Derek." 　　As the Alpha of the Black Thorn Pack, I had absolute dominance. 　　"Look up." My voice was cold, exuding the weight of my position. 　　Joanna slowly lifted her head. 　　I continued, my voice cold, "I remember you're in charge of gardening." 　　There were many servants in Rose Manor, and I handpicked each one, so I knew them all. 　　Joanna looked a bit taken aback, clearly shocked that I actually remembered her, a lowly maid. 　　"Yes, Ms. Hartley needed help since her hand's a bit compromised. Perhaps she found me considerate, so she asked me to come take care of her." 　　I ordered in a low voice, "Follow me." 　　Joanna had no choice but to comply, knowing better than to defy an Alpha. 　　She followed me into my study. I took a seat while she stood there, not daring to make a sound or even look up. 　　I fixed my gaze on her, commanding, "Spill it."