Everyone went silent.
She'd been stripped of rank after her challenge assigned to basic duties. But she walked to the platform with her head high.
Vanessa knelt before me.
"You're Shadow Ridge's rightful Luna," she said clearly. "I was wrong to challenge you out of jealousy. I pledge to serve this pack honorably under your leadership."
I could reject her. Humiliate her in front of everyone.
But that's not who I wanted to be.
"I accept your pledge," I said, helping her stand. "Thank you."
Vanessa's eyes widened with surprise and gratitude.
Christian stepped forward then, addressing the pack with full Alpha authority.
"Sophie is my mate and your Luna. Anyone who threatens her threatens me. Anyone who disrespects her disrespects Shadow Ridge."
He pulled me clos
