Chapter 117
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“Come in.” I quickly wiped the tears from my eyes and straightened my back, forcing myself to look composed.
The door swung open, and Hebert strode in. He was already dressed in an impeccably tailored jet–black suit, the deep red tie perfectly resting against his broad chest. The intense, wild aura he’d carried during his heightened instincts last night was nowhere to be seen. Now, he exuded an air of composure and authority every inch the commanding Alpha.
He frowned lightly, his dark gaze scanning my face. “Something happened, Ashley?”
I hastily brushed off the lingering wetness from my cheeks. “I’m fine. Alpha, is there something you need to discuss?”
He didn’t push further but stepped forward, planting both hands firmly on my desk. His piercing gaze locked onto mine, sharp and unwavering. “I figured we should go over some details about the upcoming banquet.”
I stayed silent, waiting for him to explain.
“You’re aware Brian–East Coast’s top Alpha–is attending. His vote carries a lot of weight, and frankly, people will be watching
his every move.”
I nodded. I had already thought about this, but I wasn’t worried at all. Brian might be stubborn, but this was about the economic interests of every pack. He wasn’t the kind of person to overlook that. Three years of marriage had shown me that much about him–he values integrity.
“You seem pretty calm about this,” Hebert said, his tone steady as ever.
“I’m confident about the proposal I’m making. It’s something every wolf will accept. I’ve prepared for everything,” I replied
firmly.
“Good to hear,” Hebert said, his eyes fixed on me. He paused for a second before continuing. “Your uncle, Paul, representing the West Coast packs, will be there too. Are you ready to face him?”
Just hearing my uncle’s name sent weakness in front of Hebert.
of resistance surging through me. But there was no way I was going to show any
“Of course, Alpha. I’m ready,” I said, lifting my chin. I forced a sharpness into my tone to cover up how uneasy I actually felt.
“Good.” He straightened up, his voice unwavering. “Don’t be afraid of anyone trying to make things hard for you. I’ll be right by your side. Bloodmoon Pack will back you completely. No one will dare harm you under my watch.”
His promise hit me like a rush of warmth, thawing the cold tension that had settled in my body.
He… why did he say that?
If this is only about work, he shouldn’t say things that could be so easily misunderstood.
“Please, don’t do this, Hebert,” I cut him off abruptly, my tone stiff and unyielding. “This is nothing more than a mutually beneficial arrangement between us. There’s absolutely no need for you to stir up conflicts with the other Alphas for my sake. It would seriously jeopardize your interests. I can handle things on my own.”
If it’s just a partnership, then let’s keep it that way. I’ll make sure to draw clear boundaries and stop myself from hoping for anything more.
“You’ve got it wrong, Ashley,” Hebert said, narrowing his eyes slightly. His tone shifted back to that cold, businesslike edge. This isn’t about you. It’s about the Bloodmoon Pack. You’re my acting Luna. If someone humiliates you at the banquet, it’s no different from humiliating me. And I won’t let that happen.”
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