SOPHIA
The morning after the elders’ banishment dawns crisp and bright, frost clinging to pine needles like scattered diamonds. I stand at the kitchen window of the alpha house, watching moving trucks lumber away through territory gates while steam from my coffee fogs the glass. Their departure should feel like victory, but all I taste is the bitter knowledge that we’ve torn the pack in half to save it.
“They deserved worse.” Alcyde’s arms circle my waist from behind, his chin settling on my shoulder. Through our bond, I feel his satisfaction mingling with lingering fury at their accusations.
“Maybe. But now they’re old men without a home.”
“They’ve got relatives taking them in.” His arms tighten, possessive. “Don’t tell me you feel sorry for them.”
“I feel sorry for anyone who gets t
