The formal meeting room in the Avila mansion felt heavier than usual that evening. The long oak table was lined with elders and senior pack members, their expressions serious under the warm glow of the chandeliers. Claire sat beside Xander near the head of the table, her hand resting quietly in his under the wooden surface. She had been invited to observe as part of her Luna training, but tonight’s topic made her stomach twist with nerves.
Alissa and Allen sat directly across from them. Alissa’s usual bright energy was subdued, her fingers tightly interlaced with Allen’s. The elders had called this meeting specifically to discuss their bond.
Elder Harlan, a silver-haired wolf with a deep, authoritative voice, spoke first. “We respect the strength of your mate bond. However, completing it
