Penelope POV
"Get the car keys now, Axton."
I do not look up from my desk. My fingers press hard into the dark mahogany wood. The surface is cold.
"The saloon is packed tonight, Your Excellency," Axton says. His voice drops an octave. He takes a single step back toward the office door. "Tallulah is already inside. She has five of the minor Pack matriarchs with her."
"I did not ask for a headcount." I stand up slowly. My chair skrapes against the floorboards. The sound is sharp. It cuts right through the quiet room. "I asked for the keys."
Axton bows his head. His neck turns a dull shade of red. "The black saloon car is out the front, Governor. The engine is already running."
"Good."
I walk past him. I do not wait for him to open the door for me. I grab my tailored jacket from the ho
