Novah’s POV
"But Dad... Ashton... he doesn't... he hates me..." The words tumbled out, a raw confession of the pain I usually tried to bury. "He won't want to—"
"That," Dad snapped, "is not your concern. It is his duty as a member of this household and as someone who clearly understands the consequences of your... lack of judgment. He will comply. You will obey him as you would obey me. Is that clear?"
The command vibrated through the line. Obey Ashton. The boy whose very presence was a confusing torment. The thought was unbearable. "Yes, Dad," I whispered, the fight utterly drained out of me. What was the point? He wouldn't believe me. No one ever did. Omega tears were just proof of weakness, not innocence.
"Good. Expect Ashton shortly. And Novah?" His voice lowered, becoming even colder, more dangerous. "Consider this your final warning. Any further incidents... any more *humiliations*... and the arrangement with Alpha Stonehaven regarding your future will be accelerated. Do you un
