"Karmen," Katelyn whispered at last.
Raiden's brows shot up. "Gabriel's Beta?" His voice carried both surprise and disbelief.
"Yes," she admitted softly. "But I don't love him anymore. That was… In the past."
Raiden leaned back. "Kate," he began with a fatherly tone, "I would never stop you from choosing a beta, or even an omega, if that's where your heart led you. I only hoped you would consider an alpha because it might bring you strength and security. But if that path doesn't bring you joy, I will never force it on you. You're my daughter before anything else, and your happiness matters most. I would stand against the world if it meant protecting that."
Her heart warmed up at the unexpected warmth in his words. For so long, she had feared his judgment, certain he would question her or dismiss her feelings. Now, regret gnawed at her for not confiding in him sooner.
