43. A Mate's Betrayal

CATHERINE.

I look up when the door opens and although I’m expecting Skyla, my son’s mate, it’s not her, but Kenneth.

His face is pale as he stares at Royce in shock before that changes to relief in his eyes at the sight of our son.

Oh, if only he knows that even our little baby girl is alive!

“Royce… you’re alive… I got worried…” he says as he slowly enters the room. “I sensed your emotions, Catherine… I…”

Winona instantly turns her face away and Marcel pulls her into his arms, turning slightly as if shielding her from Kenneth’s view.

And even Royce steps forward, blocking her from view.

I find it odd. Does she not want to meet him?

But something is definitely wrong. Even Marcel’s demeanour has changed.

“I am alive. Are you surprised, Father?” Royce asks quietly.

“What is the meaning of this? Why are you meeting like this? Why did you lie about being dead?” Dad asks as he looks between Royce and me. His eyes glimmer with anger.

“He’s alive, Ken! What more do we need? And, t