Page 77 of Alpha's Rejected Warrior
“—cannot allow this to continue,” Stasio says. “My children were nearly killed.”
I knock once and enter without waiting for permission. Both men turn toward me, and the hostility between them is obvious.
Xander sits behind his massive oak desk, fingers steepled, while Stasio occupies one of the leather chairs across from him, his weathered hands gripping the armrests with white knuckles.
“Commander.” Xander’s voice carries an edge of relief. “I was about to send for you.”
Stasio inclines his head slightly. “Commander, I trust you have updates on the investigation?”
“There have been some developments, yes.” I keep my expression neutral.
Though I’m certainly not sharing them with you, Stasio. Not when you’re hell-bent on having Jayme punished without due process.
Xander leans forward against his desk. “Elder Stasio has been sharing his requests for how we should respond to the attack on Holden. According to his account, Jayme assaulted him without provocation.”
“Has Holden spoken more about the attack?” I ask
“Absolutely,” Stasio says. “He barely managed to escape without further injuries, and he’s fearful that someone else might not be so lucky.”
Something about this doesn’t sit right. Holden should never have been able to get into the guarded dungeons in the first place. What were his motives when he went to confront Jayme? But I can’t voice those suspicions with Stasio present.
“Given this testimony,” Xander says, “we’re implementing heightened security measures for the prisoner.”
“What kind of measures?” I ask, though I have a sinking feeling that I already know.
Stasio’s eyes flash coldly. “Chains. Iron shackles. That monster cannot be allowed to move freely, even within his cell. Perhaps he should even wear a muzzle.”
Monster.My wolf bristles at the derogatory term, but knowing what I know now about Jayme’s true nature, I don’t know how to argue against these precautions. Scarlet Wolves possess strength beyond normal Lycans, especially when triggered.
“That makes sense,” I say, forcing my tone to sound agreeable. “Increased restraints are warranted.”
Xander seems surprised by my response and studies my face, suspicious of my compliance. “You accept these measures, Commander?”
I don’t have a choice, because I know what he is capable of.
I nod. “We can’t allow this violence to escalate, and we can’t risk additional causalities.”
“Precisely.” Stasio nods approvingly. “I’m glad to see you understand the gravity of the situation, Commander.”
I force myself to meet Xander’s gaze steadily. “Alpha, I’d like permission to question Holden myself. I want to hear his testimony firsthand.”
“Absolutely not,” Stasio cuts in immediately. “My son has endured enough trauma—”
“Elder Stasio,” Xander holds up a hand. “The Commander has a valid point. A direct account will provide crucial details for the investigation.”
Stasio’s nostrils flare, and a beat of silence passes before he speaks. “Very well. But I insist on being present during any questioning.”
“Of course.” I keep my voice respectful, though irritation flares in my chest. “I’ll also need Ethan present. His observational skills have proven valuable to the investigation.”
“The human?” Stasio’s eyebrows rise. “Is that really... necessary?”
“He’s been instrumental in uncovering key details.” I hold Stasio’s gaze without flinching. “My Alpha can confirm his contributions.”
Xander nods. “Yes, Ethan’s insights have been surprisingly useful.”
Surprisingly.As if humans are incapable of intelligence. I bite back a sharp retort.
Stasio straightens in his chair. “I’ll await you both at Holden’s chambers, before the evening meal, for your meeting with him.”
