5: CLAIMED

Shirtless, Ruan made his way back to the palace just before daybreak. As he approached the entrance, he noticed his pack waiting for him with disapproving expressions on their faces. However, their frowns weren’t directed at his recent actions. Instead, their sharp and cautious eyes were fixed on the woman in his arms.

“How dare you stare at my woman?!” Ruan growled, causing the others to avert their gaze. On the other hand, Terry continued to stare, unfazed by Ruan’s outburst, while Gray appeared indifferent.

“Your woman?” Terry asked incredulously, unable to believe what he had just heard. “Don’t deny it, Ruan.”

Terry walked toward him, ensuring that their conversation remained confidential and out of earshot from anyone else. Looking down at the woman, Terry stared at the mark scar on the woman’s neck—an obvious sign of a mating imprint.

“She’s already someone’s mate. You know you can’t have her no matter what.”

At his words, Ruan’s eyes suddenly squinted as sharp as a blade, a