#Chapter 361: A Beat Too Soon

Nathan The tea in our cups had barely cooled when Edward’s question cut through the comfortable silence. His curiosity took me by surprise. Me? Taking a break as Alpha? I wouldn’t dream of it, especially not now, when my pack needed me. “Edward, I can’t just let anyone take over as Alpha, even for just a few days,” I said, the firmness in my voice leaving no room for misinterpretation. “And besides, Olivia and I managed to squeeze in a small weekend vacation not long ago. I’m fine. I just need to get some better sleep, and then I’ll feel better. That’s all.” Edward’s eyes held mine, and he nodded slowly, almost thoughtfully, as if he was fully digesting his words—or maybe trying to come up with a viable response. “Of course, Nathan. Your dedication is what makes you a fine Alpha,” he said, but there was a subtle shift in his tone that suggested there was more he wanted to say. I looked at Edward for a few moments longer before I spoke again. “You really think you’d be able to fill