Page 99 of Puck & Her Blades

They’ve caged him inside because of an accident and blamed him for his own chronic health problems. Instead of recognizing his courage and bravery, as well as exceptional smartness, good nature, baking skills and support that he offers the entire pack, he’s dismissed for his differences.

Possessively, I curl my arm around Cygnus, straightening his shoulders and tipping back his chin.

I won’t let them cow him.

Cygnus stood up to Wolfie for me.

He braves the Alpha crowds at each game.

He knows that there are threats against him but he doesn’t hide.

He’s sweet but he’s more than his submissive act.

“You’ve got this, beauty,” I murmur.

Finally, Cygnus’ gaze steels and meets his sister’s. I keep my steadying arm around him.

“I’m not the same as the rest of the pack,” Cygnus’ voice is low, “and we both know why that is, don’t we Syd?” Sydney pales. What does he mean? Roarke is watching their exchange carefully. “Are you still going to bully me, even when—"

“Silence, Omega,” she hisses.

To my horror, Sydney’s voice is infused with Alpha Command, which is a deep, biological command that an Omega can’t resist.

My parents never used an Alpha Command against an Omega.

An Alpha Command should only be used by an Omega’s bonded and even then, only in times of extreme danger or severe punishment.

Cygnus’ eyes widen, and his mouth snaps shut, so fast that his teeth clack painfully.

Even Roarke draws in a deep breath in shock.

Cygnus whines behind his teeth. He tremors like he’s fighting the hold of the command.

The room is flooded with the sickening scent of distressed Omega.

I gag.

Then I catch Cygnus, as his knees buckle, and he’s overwhelmed by the punishing Alpha command, crumpling with him to the floor.

I wrap my arms around him.

I card my fingers through his curls, trying to ease the pain of being controlled like a puppet.

Jackson and Zev move toward Cygnus’ sister as one, just like it’s a coordinated move on the ice. They snatch an arm each and ram her against the wall.

Sydney laughs, although she looks panicked.

Zev is like a storm unleashed as he slams his fist into the wall next to her head.

“Lift the command,” Jackson orders. “Right. Now.”

“Or what?” Sydney snarls.

“I’ll tear out your fucking throat.”

“I’d like to see you try.”

“So would I.” Zev cocks his head. “Because I want to watch, while he does it.”

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