Chapter 17: Pride and Politics (Scarlett's POV) The morning sunlight stretched long and golden as I approached the pack's administrative den. The towering structure loomed ahead, its stone walls exuding an air of authority. My fingers brushed against the new moonstone bracelet on my wrist. The cool and smooth weight was a constant reminder of Steven’s recent attempt at a peace offering. I wasn’t sure what was more annoying—the fact that he thought a material gift would fix everything or the fact that it was actually working. The enforcer at the door straightened at the sight of me. “Luna Scarlett,” he greeted, bowing slightly. “The Alpha is in a meeting handling territory matters.” He hesitated, unsure of whether to let me proceed. “Would you prefer to wait in his private office?

