Dax’s POV
Rumors spread faster than wildfire in a Pack as big as mine.
By the time I returned to the estate, the whispers had already reached my ears—my supposed engagement to Rose.
I shoved the heavy oak doors of the council hall open. The echo rattled down the corridor, silencing the chatter inside. My mother stood at the center, regal as ever, her golden hair twisted into a crown braid. Elders circled her like obedient hounds waiting to sniff out her next orders.
Her gaze landed on me, sharp and smug. “So the Alpha finally decides to show up.”
I didn’t bother to greet her. I crossed the room in deliberate strides, every step making the air heavier. “You’ve been very busy, Mother,” I said flatly.
“Busy saving your reputation,” she snapped. “Busy reminding this Pack th
