I didn't even take the time to respond. I just watched him drop onto the armchair in front of me while I pulled a cigarette from the drawer and lit it, letting the smoke hit my lungs, seeking that hit of nicotine to calm Fenris. Liam began to talk about the progress of the new construction projects in the pack territory, passing folders and charts. But I was only half-listening, feigning interest in every one of his words, submerged in a routine of signing and stamping. Almost an hour of tedious work passed until Liam’s phone vibrated. He answered with a nonchalant tone, but within a few seconds, the color drained from his face. His jaw tensed and his eyes sought mine with a mix of nervousness and pity. "What? No... it can't be. Are you sure?" Liam whispered, gesturing with his hand fo

