Food and wine had already been served.
Damon poured a glass and pushed it toward me.
"Serena, I truly admire you. Marry me, and I will ensure your pack lives in peace. What could be better than that?"
I didn't touch the wine. I only gave a cold laugh.
"You sent 300 men to the border to show your admiration? And according to the rules, once we marry, my pack will be absorbed into yours. What say or authority would I have then? I came here in person as a gesture of good faith."
Damon sighed, his tone coaxing.
"You are a female Alpha managing such a large territory. Isn't it exhausting? Marry me, and you can peacefully be my mate. You will not need to keep dealing with those elders. As for Blake..."
He paused, contempt flashing in his eyes.
"A mixed-blood mongrel. If you want to keep
