Rue’s POV

The hall held its breath. Every gaze was pinned on the elder clutching Marcus’s decision, the parchment trembling in his hands.

“After due consideration…” his voice rang out, weighted and deliberate, “…Alpha Marcus has chosen to award the partnership to Percy’s company.”

For a moment, a heavy silence.

Then, like thunder splitting the sky, the announcement shattered the air. Gasps rippled through the hall. Aiden’s entourage were full of disbelief.

Aiden stood ...