_Nathan’s POV_
The arena felt different the moment I stepped out of the tunnel.
It wasn’t just louder. It was heavier. Pack banners mixed with the usual team colors in the upper sections, and the VIP area was fuller than I had ever seen it for a regular-season game. Dark coats. Formal posture. People who did not come to games unless there was a reason beyond hockey.
Theo skated up beside me during warm-ups, following my line of sight before I could look away.
“They’re really here,” he said. “I thought the notice was exaggerated.”
“It wasn’t.”
“Any of them yours?”
“My father. Damian Silvermane. A few others.” I paused. “Rowan too.”
Theo’s expression tightened. “The Golden Pack King?”
“Yes.”
He exhaled through his nose. “Great. No pressure, then.”
I didn’t answer. I had already fo
