Sloane's POV
I was speechless.
Like, seriously? Me, fragile and timid?
I was ready to strike, to make those arrogant rogues bow to a real Alpha female. Then Epoch opened his mouth—and just like that, my edge was gone, their confidence rising.
But then I caught it. The water was still dripping down his handsome face, clinging to his hands. He'd run back from the restroom in a rush. For me.
How could I be mad at him for that?
"Epo, don't be like this… I need you to trust me," I said softly, snuggling up to him under the rogues' sharp eyes.
"Just give me time. Let me handle this myself, okay?"
His gaze burned with guilt. Worry. Like leaving me for even a bathroom break was a crime he'd never forgive himself for.
But I knew right then he wasn't going to stand aside.
That flicker of k
