Chapter 19: Katelyn's Escape (Tyler's POV)

(Tyler's POV)

I watched along with my mom and dad as Ryder escaped the room with Katelyn close in tow. My parents' faces were etched with irritation and disappointment that they hadn't been able to continue their inquisition, but the room was silent until Katelyn and Ryder's footsteps had faded away and we heard the front door close.

I felt the weight of expectation pressing down on me. It was a familiar burden, but tonight it had taken on a new form.

"Tyler..." Mom began, a look of concern on her face that I had seen countless times before, but I cut her off.

"No," I stated, my tone firm yet respectful as my gaze shifted between them. I sat forward in my seat now, agitated. "I actually can't believe you would disrespect my mate like that," I shook my head in disbelief. "She's probably convinced she's unwelcome here now. She was so nervous to meet you and I tried to tell her it wouldn't be so bad, but you were exactly what she anticipated," I kept my tone calm and measured.

"Well at l