The air in the grand parlor remained frozen long after Julian took a cautious step back. Draven’s grip on my waist didn't loosen; if anything, his fingers dug deeper into the fabric of my emerald gown, anchoring me to his side as if the entire world were trying to steal me away.
"Alpha Vance," Elder Thomas cleared his throat, desperately trying to salvage the political wreckage. "Perhaps we should take this discussion to the strategy room. Lady Valerie has brought forward some... pressing matters regarding northern border security that involve your territory as well."
"An excellent idea," Alpha Vance muttered, his eyes darting uncomfortably between Draven’s lethal glare and Julian’s clenched fists. "Julian, come."
Julian didn't move immediately. He gave me one last, lingering look a mix
