“This scumbag tried to force himself on my sister,” Caleb growled. “He tried to assault Clara.”
The accusation struck Aria like a thunderclap.
She turned to Marcus instantly.
Marcus shook his head desperately.
“Aria,” he said hoarsely, “I swear on the Moon Goddess and on our parents’ graves—I didn’t do that. She’s lying. I would never do something like that. Please believe me.”
Caleb looked ready to attack him again.
But Aria spoke first.
“I believe you.”
The words stunned everyone.
Aria did feel terrible for Clara—if the accusation were true.
But she knew her brother better than anyone.
Marcus loved Sophia with all his heart. He had never even looked at another woman.
Not even during the rowdiest full-moon celebrations.
“Aria, have you lost your mind?” Caleb shouted. “Look at Clara! Her body is covered in bruises! You’re a woman too—are you saying she’s lying?”
“I never said that,” Aria replied calmly, though her voice trembled slightly. “But I won’t condemn my brother without proof.”
She drew a slow breath.
“This is a serious accusation, Caleb. The council of elders should investigate. If Marcus is guilty, he will face the pack’s judgment. But if he isn’t—”