Third person's POV
"Uh...?"
Before Aiden could process Chloe's unexpected invitation, let alone form a response, rapid footsteps approached from behind them.
In an instant, Chloe pushed him away, her demeanor transforming from intimate to commanding as she stepped back.
Her spine straightened, chin lifted, and the vulnerability he had glimpsed moments ago vanished behind the mask of the Alpha.
The sharp sound of boots against stone grew closer, and Ethan walked into view. His usually composed face appeared tensed, his chest heaving as if he had run across the grounds.
"Alpha!" Ethan said, bowing his head quickly.
"Your immediate attention is required." He said.
"What is it?" Chloe asked, narrowing her eyes.
"The weapons..." Ethan hesitated, his gaze flickering briefly to Aiden before returning to Chloe.
"Several items from the training center's armory are missing." He announced, reluctantly.
