Those words were spat out with such conviction, as if he had noticed it for a long time and had been waiting for the right moment to ask.

Could it be that he knew? Even before our intimacy?

“Speak!” He growled.

Instinctively I stepped back, but he grabbed my arm violently, dragging me to my feet. "Explain yourself, now."

Panic filled me. I couldn't let him know I was pregnant; at least, not yet. I tried to steady my voice, but it came out stuttering. "I... I just felt a little off. It's nothing, really, Alpha. I'm fine."

He growled, his grip tightening painfully. "Don't lie to me, Aria! I know when someone's lying to me!"

I struggled to keep my composure, but fear and uncertainty overwhelmed me. "I swear, Alpha, it's nothing serious. I just don't feel well today."

His eyes darkened, and his voice grew even colder. "You're hiding something. Do you think I can't see through you? Tell me the truth, now."

Desperation took hold of me. "I... I promise, I'm telling the truth. It's okay. Plea