Chapter 45

Elvira POV

The moment the maid stepped out of Alpha Jaxon’s chambers, I knew something was wrong. Her face was drawn and uncertain, her steps hesitant as she approached me. Brielle had called in sick, leaving me alone to handle everything. I’d hoped maybe, just maybe, I could steal a moment with Alpha Jaxon. Talk to him at least.

The maid lowered her gaze. “Lady Elvira,” she said softly, “I’m sorry, but Alpha Jaxon said he doesn’t want to see you.”

I blinked. “What? That can’t be true. He—”

She cut me off quickly, gently but firmly. “He made it clear he doesn’t want to see you. I’m sorry.”

Something splintered inside of me. It was a clean, quiet crack right behind my ribs, the kind that doesn’t make a sound but you feel it in your teeth. I nodded slowly, holding back the rising tide