Ruby's POV
Elias's voice cut through the heavy oak door like a blade, sharp with barely controlled fury.
"I believed I made myself perfectly clear. This conversation ends now."
The silence that followed felt suffocating. Then one of the elders spoke again, his voice wavering but determined.
"We comprehend your position, Alpha. However, our obligation as council members requires us to address this matter."
"Your obligation," Elias snarled, "is to ensure this pack remains powerful. To guarantee our warriors stay battle-ready, our treasury remains full, and our people stay unified. Not to waste time fixating on my personal relationships."
A wave of hurried apologies filled the room, but one elder's voice rose above the rest.
