"No. It's too risky."
Kieran's voice was flat and decisive. Emerald looked at him, her heart racing. She had anticipated him to oppose her, but his harsh tone still stung.
"Kieran," she said quietly, stepping closer, "I need you to really think about this, not as Alpha, not as the commander of your pack and… not as my mate. Think about it as someone who knows him. As someone who knows me."
His eyes softened slightly, but his jaw remained tight. "I understand you want to help. I understand you're desperate to end this. But there is no guarantee this will work. None at all. And the risk…" He shook his head. "The risk is just too great."
Emerald's fists curled at her sides. "I'm certain."
He gave a bitter laugh. "Certain? How can you possibly be…"
"Because I know him," Emerald cut in.