Austin's POV
Bill shoots me a knowing look as we walk across the training grounds. "So, Rose, what's the deal with not marking your mate yet? You know damn well you'd both be stronger once you complete the bond." He pauses, studying my expression. "Look, it's not my business and you can tell me to back off, but she's incredible, she's an Alpha, and you're obviously head over heels."
I steal a glance back toward my mate, catching her eye and throwing her a quick wink that makes her lips curve into a smile.
"Ever heard of an alliance bond?" I ask quietly.
"Shit," Bill mutters under his breath.
"What's that?" Rex jumps into the conversation, his brow furrowed with confusion.
"It's when an Alpha basically trades his daughter to another pack to secure a long-term alliance," I explain, the words tasting bitter in my mouth.
"Trades? That can't be legal," Rex says, his voice sharp with disbelief.
