"Good evening, Alpha Haynes, Luna Aeliana," she greeted us, her voice sugary sweet. "We’ve been waiting for you for a long time."
I forced a smile, though it felt more like a grimace. "I’m sorry. I came in a hurry and didn’t bring a gift," I said, turning to Beta Ark.
Meanwhile, Beta Ark, ever the charmer, waved off my apology.
"I’ve given him a gift on your behalf," Haynes interjected smoothly before Ark could respond. "You don’t need to feel sorry."
His hand lightly grasped mine as he led me to the table. The remaining two seats were placed opposite each other, a detail I couldn’t help but notice. It felt like a setup, a subtle jab at my position.
I released his hand and walked straight to the seat opposite him, my movements deliberate. I could feel the eyes of the pack members on me, their judgment heavy in the air.
I knew what the pack members and the elders were thinking.