I walked away from the podium, each step measured and weighted with exhaustion and sighed deeply as the resonance of my words slowly faded into the cavernous silence. The lingering echo of my voice mingled with the subtle rustle of the departing crowd, a reminder of the pressure that had just been lifted.
Maria came over, her eyes glistening with both relief and concern, and enveloped me in a warm, tight hug that instantly made me feel the strength of our bond. “Good job, Alpha. You did it. You survived the gruelling task of public speaking at a mass event,” she said, her voice gentle yet proud, carrying the subtle cadence of both admiration and empathy.
I gave a reluctant shake of my head, the movement betraying a mix of humility and lingering vulnerability. “No, Maria. I’m nothing with
