CHAPTER SEVENTY TWO - JEALOUSY ERUPTS

"Anna," he said gently, "are you alright?" She nodded, still trembling slightly. "I... I think so. Erik, I'm so sorry. I never meant to cause such discord." Erik pulled her into his arms, holding her close. "You have nothing to apologize for. You were magnificent, standing up to Vanessa like that. I'm so proud of you." As Anna melted into his embrace, she couldn't help but feel that while one battle had been won, the war was far from over. In the days that followed, Anna found herself the subject of even more attention than before. Many pack members sought her out, offering words of support and admiration for her bravery. But there were still those who watched her with wary eyes, their loyalties clearly torn. Marcus, in particular, seemed to have taken it upon himself to be Anna's personal protector. He was constantly at her side, offering support and companionship. While Anna appreciated his kindness, she couldn't shake a growing sense of discomfort at his increasing familiarity.