Chapter 53: The Price of Pride
(Elina's POV)
My back pressed against the soft mattress of Damon's private den, his alpha scent overwhelming my senses. His lips trailed down my neck, making my wolf whine softly with need. The ceremonial robes rustled beneath us, a reminder of how we'd ended up in this compromising position.
Then, the knock came.
"Alpha Blackwood," Marcus’s firm voice called out. "Your grandmother has arrived."
Everything within me froze. Damon’s wolf tensed immediately, his calm demeanor breaking for just a moment. He exhaled sharply, irritation flashing across his handsome features.
"Esmeralda?" he muttered, running a hand through his hair. His body shifted away from me, though the intensity in his gaze didn’t lessen.
I bolted upright, panic clawing at my che
