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Cade couldn’t stop himself. He reached out, ruffling Finn’s silky hair in that brotherly gesture that had been their safe contact for years. But this time, he let his fingers linger just a fraction too long, savoring the texture.

“Only the best for our little fox,” he said, the possessive pronoun slipping out before he could catch it.

Finn stepped back slightly, confusion and something darker flashing in his eyes. “Right. Wouldn’t want to disappoint the guests.”

The hurt in his voice cut through Cade like a physical wound. Before he could respond, Logan appeared at his shoulder, his expression tense.

“Problem at the gate,” he said quietly. “Security needs you.”

Cade nodded, his wolf raging at the interruption. “Stay inside,” he told Finn, unable to keep the alpha command from his tone.

“I’m not a child,” Finn snapped, familiar irritation rising. “I can handle myself.”

“Just do as you’re told, Finn,” Logan said, his voice gruff but gentle as his hand landed on Finn’s shoulder.

Through their bond, Cade felt Logan’s struggle not to pull Finn closer, not to bury his face in that tempting neck and breathe in their mate’s scent. It mirrored his own battle for control—a battle they couldn’t afford to lose, not when Finn was still processing the revelation of their bond.

“Fine,” Finn muttered. “Go play security. I’ll just stay here and cut my cake like a good little birthday boy.”

As they walked away, Cade sent a quick message through the bond.Keir, watch him.

Already on it,came the immediate response.

Outside, the situation was exactly as Cade had suspected. Three wolves from the McLean Pack prowling the perimeter. Logan’s eyes flashed amber as they approached the gate.

“I’ll handle this,” Cade said, straightening his tie. “You get back to Finn.”

“And leave you alone with rival wolves?” Logan growled.

“I’m hardly defenseless,” Cade reminded him. “And Finn needs protection more than I do right now. Every unmated alpha in there caught his scent after the ceremony.”

Logan hesitated, torn between protecting his alpha brother and guarding their mate. Finally, he nodded. “Ten minutes. Then I’m coming back.”

Cade clapped him on the shoulder before turning to face the interlopers. Through their bond, he felt the moment Logan reentered the house, felt his brother’s rage spike as he scanned the room for Finn.

He’s gone.Logan’s internal voice was sharp with alarm.Not in the main room.

Outside, Keir responded immediately.On the deck. I can see him from here. He’s upset—needed air.

Relief washed through their bond, followed by renewed tension.

I’m going to him, Keir decided.He shouldn’t be alone right now.

Be careful, Cade warned, even as he faced down the McLean wolves.He’s fragile tonight. Confused.

I know.Keir’s internal voice softened.I’ll be gentle.

Through their connection, Cade and Logan felt Keir approach Finn on the deck, felt the surge of protectiveness as he saw their mate shivering in the night air. They shared his view of Finn silhouetted against the moonlit ocean, slender and beautiful and so clearly hurting.

“Shouldn’t you be inside enjoying your party?”Keir asked aloud, his internal voice transmitting the conversation to his brothers.

“Needed some air,”Finn replied without turning.

Cade barely maintained his focus on the McLean wolves as he felt, through Keir, the overwhelming need to comfort their mate. The diplomatic conversation with the rival pack became background noise as he shared Keir’s experience—the moonlight silvering Finn’s hair, the vulnerability in his profile, the way his hands gripped the railing like it was the only thing keeping him upright.

“It’s a lot, I know. All those people,”Keir was saying, moving closer, fighting the urge to wrap Finn in his arms.

“I’m fine,”Finn lied.“Just needed a break from being the center of attention.”