Ares POV

　　Following that meeting, I sense a profound shift within myself. I can't stop thinking about Dana and the idea that Bathel might be the one who greeted her. I had no idea where she was at that moment, which left me feeling confused.

　　I vividly recall going to my office, locking the door, and opening my laptop, only to find our photo together on my desk. I swiftly grabbed it and examined it - It was captured in a Polaroid. I appeared quite joyful in a photograph with her.

　　Her smile... They remain consistent, and she is deeply in love with me. I didn't even notice the smile on my face. I nibble on my lower lip and tuck it away in my drawer before returning my attention to my laptop.

　　I'm curious about Dana's whereabouts and intrigued to explore the validity of their theories, as it appears that everything is falling into place.

　　I couldn't care less... I don't mind where Dana ended up or settled down, but I never imagined it would be Bathel. There is a man who is nearly on par with me, a man who could potentially take my place as the strongest young Alpha.

　　"Don't do it," Blaze interrupted me.

　　"What are you referring to?" I asked, feeling perplexed.

　　"You don't need to find her," he stated confidently, and I let out a humorless laugh.

　　"Why not? I'm curious to know if they're being honest with me. If she was true to Bathel, then she must have moved on," I whispered, feeling uncertain about my words that made my heart race.

　　"It's none of your concern now," he stated. "She embraced the rejection. It's all irrelevant now. She is insignificant. Don't listen to-"

　　"I know," I interjected. "I am confident in my abilities. I no longer have any interest in her. I am primarily focused on closely observing Bathel. It appeared as if-"

　　"Honey?" Blaire knocks on the door.

　　I promptly shut my laptop and pushed Blaze out of my thoughts. I stood up and ran my fingers through my hair.

　　"I'll be right there!" I exclaimed as I rushed to the door and opened it for her, noticing her heavy breathing.

　　"Maybe you'd like to step outside," she suggested, looking concerned.

　　"What's going on?" I inquired.

　　"You must come with me," she declared loudly before walking away. I trailed behind her.

　　We're currently in the lobby, and she passed me an envelope. My forehead furrowed as I reluctantly opened it without much consideration. I just discovered a small piece of paper with a mysterious message on it.

　　'Success should not lead to excessive celebration...' I can't resist clenching my jaw when I see it.

　　"I wonder who created this," Blaire exclaimed, the rage flowing through her body.

　　I place the paper on the desk.

　　"Probably someone envious of our success," I calmly responded, which only seemed to anger her more.

　　"Are you kidding me?" Her laughter fills the room. "This is a serious matter!" she emphasized.

　　She ran her fingers through her hair. "Do you think I'm clueless?" I arched my eyebrow.

　　"Sweetheart-"

　　"You believe I'm unaware of the meeting discussing the opponent pack and mentioning Dana?" She let out a small laugh. "I can't believe you never shared this with me. You need to quit behaving as if all your success is solely due to your efforts, it's also thanks to me!" she exclaimed. I allow her to express her strong opinions, even though they are not based on reality.

　　"Blaire-"

　　She whispered, "I believe that woman is the one who made this."

　　"What if she's trying to get revenge-" her words are abruptly interrupted as I move closer to her, take her hand, and lock eyes with her.

　　"Relax," I murmured as I gently kissed her forehead.

　　"That is not going to happen," I gently lowered her hand and caressed the side of her cheeks.

　　She gave her head a firm shake. "I'm not finished with her-"

　　"Listen to me," I commanded.

　　Ultimately, I prefer that she refrain from taking action. I never imagined Blaire would ever try to harm Dana, and I couldn't stand by and let that happen. I am well aware of their past, but I will never abandon Blaire. She assisted me, and our group must stay united.

　　Whispering through her ear, "I vowed to protect our pack from any who dare to defy us. I doubt they have the capability." She removed my hand when I tried to hold hers.

　　She had a line prepared for when Ander entered the room.

　　"Did you get a chance to read the letter? May I inquire?" he inquired.

　　I gave a nod.

　　"We need to take action before this impacts the pack," he stated. "The Black River Pack should also be informed about this," he added.

　　Blaire chuckles. "Why are you sharing that with him?" She let out an exasperated sigh. "It's time to take action. We are both discussing the same topic, and you don't think that crossed our minds?" she added. I simply observe her and allow her to express herself.

　　"I am aware of the kind of explanation that you are going to provide to me at this very moment. It is not a problem. I would like for you to tell my father about it since if I did, I am certain that he would talk about other things. Therefore, I would appreciate it if you could please give me some time with the Alpha."

　　After taking a few long breaths, Ander turned his attention away from me and instead focused on her. His voice was soft and hushed as he said, "Sure, I will just have to inform the Black River Alpha, as well as the other people in command to handle this." Then he asked, "Alpha, do you have more commands that I need to do?"

　　"That's all I want," I stated. "I'm confident this is a minor issue, those troublemakers might be the ones who sent it." Whispering, I made it clear that I was unfazed and confident in my strength.

　　Ander nodded as he left.

　　Blaire made physical contact with my hand. "You don't seem scared, but you're also not paying attention to me," she remarked.

　　"Are you even aware of my existence-"

　　"Sure thing." I cut her off. "I acknowledge every part of you, Blaire," I whispered.

　　"I can clearly distinguish between what I should and shouldn't pay attention to," I informed her.

　　Her breath caught in surprise. "Can we please discuss what my dad mentioned-"

　　My hand rested gently on her waist. "If I am prepared," I gently kissed the corner of her lips.