Ryder looked genuinely surprised for a fleeting moment,a hint of Alpha discomfort clouding his golden gaze,but he quickly masked it.Just then,his specialized communication link lit up with a coded message.
Elara glanced at the screen and saw an invitation to an important Rogue Neutralization Ceremony hosted by a friendly Clan Leader.The message specifically requested he bring a female companion to honor the treaty.
“Do you require your claimed Mate to attend with you,Alpha?”Elara’s voice was soft,laced with a deliberate challenge he seemed to miss.
Ryder’s expression became conflicted,a war between Alpha duty and private need.
He reached out and pulled Elara into his imposing arms,speaking in a gentle,possessive tone.“That kind of event isn’t for you,my Mate.The wolves there are always looking for a fight;I don’t want you caught in the Rogue Territory trouble.I need you safe,here in the Keep.”
Elara gently shifted away from his embrace,pulling just beyond the reach of his overwhelming Alpha musk.
“That’s acceptable.I have personal matters to attend to tonight anyway,”she said.Then,forcing a phrase of duty,she added,“Return to the Keep before the moon is high.”