Marco POV
My fingers drum lightly on my thigh, my nerves tightening as we wait to leave for the Conleys’ estate. Kyra keeps glancing at me from the corner of her eye, likely sensing my tension.
“Are you okay?” she asks softly, brushing her hand against mine.
“I’m fine,” I lie.
Lucille appears from inside the house, already dressed in her tailored black gown, every line of her posture radiating authority.
“You’re both ready?” she asks briskly, adjusting her gloves.
“You’re coming along?” I ask her.
Lucille gives me a look that silences protest. “Of course I am. It’s important that I do.”
“Mother,” I say quietly, stepping out of the car and taking her aside so Kyra won’t overhear, “I’m Alpha now. Let me do this myself.”
“You don’t know these people, Marco. I do. That’s why I’m co
