As the gathering continued, Daemon kept me close, his gaze vigilant and his presence protective. The tension between the attending Alphas was palpable, an invisible current that electrified the room. Whispers and sidelong glances followed us wherever we moved, speculation and curiosity evident in every corner. Daemon, however, seemed unaffected, leading me with unwavering authority, nodding in acknowledgment as other leaders approached us. Eventually, we found ourselves at a long banquet table. Daemon pulled out a chair for me beside him, gesturing for me to sit before he took his own seat. I sat down, acutely aware of the eyes watching us, studying our every move. Just as I thought we might enjoy a few moments of peace, a tall, muscular figure approached. The Alpha wore a smirk that

