MATTEO:
The map on my table was a child’s puzzle compared to the map in my head. Lines of ink could tell you where men stood; they couldn’t tell you who would bend or break first. You didn’t need to be king to rule a kingdom. You only needed to make sure everyone else thought they had to fight for it.
Lucian’s last letter had been short and brutal, the kind of command only wolves who demand results can send. “Do not fail.”
I had not failed yet.
Maximus doesn’t know it yet, but his so-called loyal servants bow to me. It’s only a matter of time before I take what’s rightfully mine.
“Report.”
“Alpha Maximus is making moves. New laws discussed, stopping of forced bonds, enforcement against brothels, new protections for omegas. It’s a new evolution. Most of the elders are against it,” My
