Chapter 9: Pride and Punishment
(Aria's POV)
The air in the grand hall felt heavier as Alexander stepped forward. The tension crackled, thick and palpable, as if the room itself could sense the escalating unease. All eyes were on him, watching, judging. I could hardly breathe.
Alexander began, his voice overly confident, but I could hear the cracks underneath. "Lord Blackthorn," he said, dipping his head slightly. "The Storm Pack would be honored to discuss terms regarding the Silver Lake Territory rights."
I felt my heartbeat quicken. I knew Alexander wasn’t strong with words, not in situations tied to politics, and certainly not in the presence of someone as overpowering as Dominic Blackthorn. My gut twisted as I braced for what was to come.
Dominic sat in casual control, yet e
