Chapter 314

DEREK’S POV The door burst open without warning. Papers scattered from my desk as Kael stormed in, his boots heavy against the polished floor. The guards stationed outside didn’t even try to stop him — they knew better. Kael never knocked when he was furious. “Do you even realize what you’re doing?” he snapped before I could even lift my head. I didn’t look up from the map spread before me, though my jaw tightened. “You’re taking liberties again,” I said coldly. “I’m your Alpha, Kael. Try to remember that before you barge into my room uninvited.” He snorted, crossing his arms. “Oh, spare me the Alpha act. You pull that title out every time you’re losing control. Don’t pretend this is about protocol — it’s about her.” My pen stilled mid-stroke. “Watch your tone,” I warned, voice low. “Or what? You’ll throw me in the dungeon? Order me to grovel?” He stepped closer, eyes blazing. “You’re angry because you saw her, and she looked at you like you were the enemy. And now you’re hiding behind