KELLY THOMPSON'S POV

The air in the grand hall was thick with tension, a tangible force that seemed to constrict around my chest with every breath I took. Alphas Draven and Carver stood before us, their stances rigid, their eyes reflecting the flickering torches that cast long shadows across the stone walls.

"Peace often requires sacrifice," Grayson's voice cut through the silence, steady and assured as he stepped forward. His broad shoulders were squared, his amber eyes scanning the crowd of ...