I had barely begun my courteous reply when Selene cut me off with a sharp wave of her hand.
"Kael Nightcrest, who gave you permission to speak on our behalf?"
"The Denmaster obviously extended this honor because of my mate Darius's standing. What right do you have to play the gracious host? You are thanking him as though any of this has anything to do with you!"
She shoved past me and strode up to Garrick, her chin lifted with entitled pride.
"I will thank Denmaster Ronan on behalf of my mate. Consider this toast my gesture of respect."
"Once Darius finishes his current affairs, we will personally visit the Denmaster to express our appreciation properly."
Selene raised her goblet and drained it in one smooth motion.
As the last drop passed her lips, a strange expression began to spread across Garrick Pineward's face—something between confusion and barely suppressed disbelief.
He opened his mouth to say something, but a single sharp look from me silenced him immediately.
I reached for my coat draped over the chair back and turned to face the gathered wolves.
"I have other matters to attend to. Enjoy the rest of your evening."