He stepped out first, his Alpha persona snapping into place like a well-worn mask. He strode around to my side, opening the door and offering his hand. I ignored it, stepping out on my own, letting the rain soak through my clothes.
Whispers followed us as we ascended the steps, their judgmental gazes lingering on my bedraggled appearance. Lukas placed a firm hand on my lower back, a possessive gesture meant to silence the rumors. Instead, it only fueled my anger.
The grand hall was a display of opulence and excess, the air thick with the mingling scents of wolves from all corners of the region. Celeste was waiting near the hearth, a glass of wine in hand, her golden hair cascading down her back like a goddess descended from the heavens. She saw us immediately, her lips curving into a smug smile.
“Ayla,” she purred, stepping forward. “You made it. How... unexpected.”
“Celeste,” I replied, matching her tone. “I wouldn’t miss it for the world.”
Her gaze dropped to my rain-soaked jeans and bloody forehead. “Oh dear, you’ve had quite the journey. Shall I have someone bring you something more... appropriate?”
“Don’t trouble yourself,” I said, brushing past her. “I’m perfectly comfortable.”
The room fell into a tense hush as I moved deeper into the crowd, Lukas trailing behind me. The pack members parted, their eyes darting between us with poorly concealed curiosity. They were waiting for the show, the inevitable clash.
But I wouldn’t give them the satisfaction. Not yet.
The meeting began with the usual formalities—territory disputes, alliance updates, and endless discussions about rogue sightings. I tuned it out, my attention drifting to Celeste, who sat across the room, her eyes fixed on Lukas like a predator watching its prey.
Every touch, every glance they exchanged was a dagger to my chest. But instead of crumbling, I let it fuel me.
When the meeting finally adjourned, the pack mingled once more, their voices a cacophony of gossip and laughter. Celeste wasted no time, sidling up to Lukas with a dazzling smile.
“Lukas,” she said, her voice dripping with faux innocence. “There’s a matter I’d like to discuss. Privately.”
His gaze flicked to me, and for a brief moment, I saw hesitation. But it was fleeting. He nodded and followed her toward the private lounge, leaving me alone amidst the sea of judgmental stares.