"That's archaic," Jackson protested. "Those laws were superseded centuries ago."
"Yes, but they were never formally struck from the records," Alpha Logan countered. "Marc is exploiting a legal grey area, and he's gained support from the more traditional factions of the Council."
Maison's jaw clenched, his protective instincts flaring. "It doesn't matter. The mate bond takes precedence over any arranged marriage claim."
"Which is why we must formalise it before the Conclave," Alpha Logan said, his gaze moving deliberately between the three of us. "A recognised mate bond would invalidate Marc's petition immediately."
The implications settled over us like a heavy cloak. What had been developing naturally, at our own pace, now faced external pressure and urgent timelines.
"You're suggesti
