As their bond grew, Elara discovered more about Kael’s past—a troubled history filled with betrayal and loss that shaped him into the Alpha he was. He had once loved another Omega who had betrayed him, and that pain haunted him still. “I won’t hurt you, Elara,” he promised one night, as they sat by the fire. “But you must trust me.” Elara’s heart ached for him. She felt the weight of his pain and wanted