Phoebe's POV
"Oh, Samuel..." The words came out as barely a whisper. My heart clenched watching this warrior—this man who'd faced down armies—crumble before my eyes. "I'm so sorry."
Samuel's jaw tightened. He wiped his face with the back of his hand, harsh and quick, like he was trying to erase the vulnerability I'd just witnessed.
"Don't be, my queen. I'm fine." But his voice cracked on the last word, betraying everything he was trying to hide.
The composed mask slid back into place, but I could see the storm raging underneath. His hands trembled slightly before he clenched them into fists.
"Why don't you travel to the Astrid pack?" I suggested, keeping my voice gentle.
"I can't do that." Samuel shot me a quick glance, then shook his head violently. "She's dead. There's no reason for me to go there."
