Alpha Hawthorne looked at her, his expression softening into something almost hurt. "Sister, you are already treating us as outsiders," he said with a slight frown.
Portia's gaze flickered with guilt. Without hesitation, she reached for her brother's hand, her fingers curling around his in a reassuring hold. Cristiano noticed the way she was coaxing him, her voice gentle as she said, "Brother, I would never treat you as an outsider. How could I? You are my family, my blood. I love you more than anyone on this planet."
Alpha Hawthorne arched a brow. "More than Father?"
Portia hesitated, her expression troubled. A flicker of emotion crossed her face—something Cristiano couldn't quite place. She seemed to be very close to her family.
Alpha Hawthorne sighed and withdrew his hand. "Fine," he muttered. Then, narrowing his eyes slightly, he asked, "Why are you in such a hurry to leave?"
