Xavier's POV
Grip tightening around Judy’s forearm, his voice shifting, makes it clear he’s no longer speaking as the man who once entertained her affections, but as the future Beta, invoking the authority she’s spent so long pretending doesn’t frighten her.
Or doesn’t apply to her.
V is fighting to control him now, and Judy’s face pales. “I did it,” she admits, her voice suddenly small. “But, Kai, you have to understand. I was trying to get Sloane out of your life for good. I did it for you. For us.”
She twists toward him, desperation replacing the hatred that contorted her features moments ago. Her free hand rises to his face, fingertips brushing his cheek with a tenderness so misplaced it turns my stomach.
“Don’t you see, baby? I did it for us.”
Vomit? My stomach twists again, bri
