*Shadow pack, Night*

The hall had quieted after the meal. Crystal sat stiffly, her fingers tapping lightly against the table as she tried to steady her nerves. Though the murmurs from earlier had subsided, the pack members scrutiny still lingered.

Ryder leaned back in his chair, eyes scanning the room. Even in the silence, his body radiated readiness. Every muscle, every movement betrayed the alertness he kept even when speaking politely.

Crystal could feel the tension in ...