ELARA POV
Dante arrived at Shadow Creek the morning after Kai's public declaration, and I knew before he even got out of his car that this conversation was going to be difficult. He'd heard about the joint leadership announcement. About me choosing alliance with Kai over marriage with him. And judging by the set of his shoulders, he wasn't taking it well.
"You chose him." He didn't waste time with pleasantries. "After everything I offered. After showing you exactly how I could protect your children. You chose the male who rejected you."
"I chose myself." I gestured for him to follow me inside. "And my pack. And my children. Kai's just part of that equation."
"He's the biggest part of that equation." Dante's voice was tight. "Don't pretend this is just strategic alliance. You're choosin
