** Paige’s POV **

As the pack hall finally begins to empty, the low hum of voices fades as wolves drift out in twos and threes. Some head home to their families; others linger, having quiet conversations. The heavy tension that filled the room has eased, replaced by a fragile calm.

I should feel relief. I should feel safe knowing they’ve heard Ryder and that his words steadied them, but as I stand here watching him, tall and composed, his voice even as he gives a few last instructions to ...