....

 Ryder's declaration sent shockwaves through the room, like a stone cast into still water.

 The pack members whispered and gasped, creating a wave of sound while George's face darkened, his eyes flashed with anger and resentment.

 Amy's smile faltered, her eyes welling up with tears as she took a step back, her gaze fixed on Crystal with a mix of hurt and accusation.

 Crystal's cheeks flushed as she met Ryder's gaze, her heart racing with a mix of emotions: ...