Kaelan stood at the entrance of the dungeon, the air heavy with dampness and regret. He watched as his guards dragged Simon forward, the Beta’s steps faltering under the weight of his shame. Chains clinked with every movement, echoing against the cold, stone walls.
Simon’s once-proud demeanor was gone. His shoulders sagged, and his face bore the lines of guilt and sleepless nights. He dared not meet Kaelan’s piercing gaze.
“Simon,” Kaelan said, his tone sharp but restrained. “I trusted you. You were one of my closest allies, and yet you betrayed me with Liana.”
Simon fell to his knees, his voice breaking as he spoke. “Alpha, I have no excuses. I—I don’t know what came over me. It’s like she bewitched me, clouded my judgment. I’ve felt nothing but guilt since that moment.”
Kaelan crossed his arms, his expression a mixture of anger and curiosity. “Bewitched?” he repeated, his voice low. “Do you think she used magic?”
Simon hesitated, his brows furrowing. “I don’t know. All I know is that when I was near her, it felt like my will wasn’t my own. I couldn’t think clearly. And afterward...” He shook his head, unable to finish the sentence.
Kaelan’s mind churned with the possibilities. He remembered how Simon had become distant, avoiding eye contact and shirking his duties. The pieces were falling into place, but they painted a picture he didn’t want to believe.
“I should have seen it,” Kaelan muttered, more to himself than to Simon. His voice hardened as he addressed his former Beta. “You’ve disgraced yourself and this pack. But I’m willing to give you one chance to redeem yourself.”
Simon’s head snapped up, hope flickering in his eyes. “Anything, Alpha. I’ll do anything to make this right.”
Kaelan leaned forward, his tone resolute. “Find Liana. Bring her to me. If you succeed, you’ll earn your freedom. If you fail...” He didn’t need to finish the sentence. The weight of the unspoken threat hung in the air.
Simon nodded fervently, his desperation palpable. “Thank you, Alpha. I won’t fail you.”
Kaelan studied him for a long moment before turning to leave. As he reached the threshold, Simon’s voice stopped him.
“Alpha,” Simon said hesitantly, a spark of realization lighting his eyes. “I think I know where she is.”
Kaelan nodded, the plan forming in his mind. “Then lead my men there. And Simon—don’t make me regret giving you this chance.”
Simon bowed his head, determination etched into his features. “I won’t, Alpha.”