Ennis found Kieran in his study, reviewing patrol reports. His father looked up as Ennis
entered, and something flickered across his face—resignation, maybe. Or guilt.
"Ennis. How was patrol?"
"Interesting." Ennis closed the door behind him, his voice tight. "I counted fifty royal
guards stationed throughout our territory. Elite soldiers wearing the Alpha King's
insignia. Care to explain why the crown's military is patrolling Moon River Pack lands
without anyone telling me?"
Kieran set down his pen slowly. "Sit down, son."
"I don't want to sit down. I want answers." Ennis's hands clenched at his sides. "Who
authorized this? When did it happen? And why the hell wasn't I informed that we're
apparently under royal protection?"
"Because I didn't want to worry you."
"Worry me?" Enni
