Julian POV
“Step back from her, Alpha Julian.”
The Master of Ceremonies barked the command straight into his microphone. The high-pitched feedback squealed through the massive speakers of the Gala Hall.
I did not move. My boots felt like they were glued to the polished marble floor.
Across the room, Cooper stood by the velvet curtains. His jaw was locked. His fingers twitched against the silver hilt of his ceremonial blade. Just seconds ago, Penelope had been leaning her head against his shoulder. Her smile had been soft. Her laughter had been a low, teasing sound meant only for him.
The sight of it had twisted a knife deep in my gut.
“Now,” the host announced, his voice booming over the chatter of the crowd. “We welcome the official representatives of our Tri-Pack Blood Pact. Alpha
