#Chapter 20: Faltering Strength

“Shana!” My father growled, clearly frustrated that Lucas had effortlessly stopped him with just one hand. "Who is this... boy?"

"I’m her friend," Lucas answered before I did.

“Friend?” My father sneered. “I could sue you for trespassing and using your Alpha voice abusively.”

"I’ve been her friend since we were kids. Do you remember Bear?" Lucas chimed in, a mischievous smile playing on his lips as he held my father's fist in a vice-like grip. The strain on his knuckles was evident.

My father froze, a look of realization washing over his face. "You're Bear?"

"I know, hard to believe, right?" I chuckled, hoping to lighten the tense atmosphere. "I almost couldn't believe it myself."

Lucas glanced at me with raised eyebrows from the doorway, seemingly curious about my reaction.

My father slowly released his clenched fist near Lucas's face, his expression shifting to one of remorse.

"Dad, I'm sorry I didn't explain this earlier," I said. "I should have told you before Lucas arrived."

"It'