"Uhm… I was wondering if you know where the alpha is."
"He is taking some time alone right now, Sera. All of this is a bit overwhelming for him. Benedict has been caring for him his whole life."
Sera nodded. "Of course."
Of course he would run toward solitude instead of comfort. Of course he would believe strength meant silence. She wanted to say more. She wanted to ask Claudia to tell him she was not an enemy to his pain. They were supposed to be a team.
But the words stayed locked behind her ribs.
She waved goodbye to Cyril, forcing a smile and headed out of the house.
Claudia watched her go.
Cyril stood beside her, eyes betraying him completely as they followed Sera's retreating figure.
Claudia tilted her head slowly. "Do you still like her?"
"What?" He turned far too fast, color climbing his neck. "No. No. Why would you… uh… no."
Claudia raised a brow. "Don't worry," Claudia said. "It's not like I'm going to tell Eric."
