The silence stretches, thick with unseen fears.
Every air of eyes follows me disturbing ear in their widened gas don’t blame them. See–the lovesick fool the Late who sacrificed everything for a man who never truly cared–has the fully come to her senses?
She has
Spine straight, I don’t waver, “Rarity, enkle the council. We need to meet
“Siena” She hesitates. “Are you sure this is the right move? For you for all of wat
“I will take over as acting Alpha
A murmur ripples through the chamber.
The door swings open with force, and Rickard strides in, his presence heavy as a thundercloud. My father’s Beta–loyal disciplined, unyielding His gaze lands on me, and I see it–the flicker of unease, the silent dissent
“As you see fit,” he says finally, “But may I advise we move quickly? Your father’s funeral arrangements…”
“A small ceremony. In a few days,” I reply, my voice steady despite the grief clawing at my chest. Push it down, Siena Not now. Not in front of them.
The pack watches, uncertain. They’ve never seen this side of me–but they must learn to accept this Alpha
“Until the ceremony, we keep my father’s passing quiet from the outland packs. Any perceived weakness could be exploited”
Kairity nods, but her silence speaks volumes. We’re thinking the same thing
Rogues
“That’s enough. We need to move,” she orders sharply. The room empties, save for Rickard. He doesn’t move, his stance unyielding
“You have something to say, Rickard?” I ask, folding my arms, mirroring him.
A muscle jumps in his jaw, but still, he stays silent.
Kairity exhales in frustration. “Oh, for the goddess‘ sake, just spit it out! You don’t think she can do it, do you?”
His eyes meet mine. “I served your father for many years, Siena. I respected him. And I respected that he never forced you into leadership.”
Lifting my chin, I mask my sorrow. “Maybe he should have.”
Rickard studies me. “Your father, Zeno, wanted nothing more than your happiness.”
My chest tightens. “Mistakes were made,” I admit. “I was a fool who thought happiness meant being someone’s wife instead of leading my pack. I won’t make that mistake again.”
“This isn’t just about taking his title. Windhowl is drowning in debt. We’re vulnerable. If the wrong ears hear of this too soon
“We need resources. Allies.” I cut in. “I have a plan for that.”
1/4
00.33
Sun, 20 Apr
Chapter 4
Both of them listen, intrigued.
“The Summit of Alpha, that’s our la chance”
Rickard’s brows furrow “The hosting right
“Yes,” Rairity confirms, handing me a schedule. “If we win, we gain financial rapport, cortion and everything we need to survive.”
Rickard’s expression is unreadable. “You know who else is competings
I don’t need to ask. I already know.
“Raiden.” His name is bitter on my tongue.
Rickard watches me closely, expecting hesitation. He will not find it here.
“I don’t care if Silverfang is competing. Windhowl needs this, and I’m not hacking down”
Rairity hums in approval. “No, you’re not.”
Rickard considers for a moment before nodding. “Then we’d better start preparing
(Raiden’s POV)
