**Gaia's POV**

Before I can process Astrein's presence, he crosses the room and pulls me against his side. His arm wraps around my shoulders—protective, shielding me from Lysander's stare.

"Perhaps," Astrein says, his voice making every wolf straighten, "you'd like to explain why the Alpha of Rose Heart pack should care about your opinions regarding this woman?"

The challenge is unmistakable. Alpha to Alpha.

Lysander staggers back, shock replacing pain. "Rose ...