The pack meeting happened without warning. Evie was in the library when she heard raised voices from the great hall. Curiosity and dread drew her toward the sound. At least thirty pack members had gathered, and the energy was tense, angry. "—can't keep going like this!" Michael's voice, loud and frustrated. "He's weakening every day. We all see it. How long before Damien notices? How long before he attacks?" "Nate's handling it," Sophie argued. "Is he? Because from where I'm standing, he's barely functional. And it's her fault." Michael pointed toward Evie as she appeared in the doorway. "She's had weeks to accept the bond. Weeks of being courted, protected, welcomed. And she still refuses." "That's her right," Liam said firmly. "Is it? When her refusal endangers the entire pack?"

