= Mikael =
Silence stretched. Around us, the pack shifted subtly, pretending not to listen.
I leaned in just enough for my words to land without echoing.
“This will be the last time you question my decision regarding Amara.”
His brows drew together, just slightly.
“Careful, Mikael—”
“No.” My voice hardened, quiet but unyielding. “You will be careful. I respect your years. I respect what you were to my father. But do not mistake that respect for dependency.”
Rowan’s jaw tightened.
“I am Alpha of Veyrath,” I continued. “If I choose to bond her, then she will be recognized. If I choose to elevate her, she will rise. And if anyone—Elder or otherwise—undermines that…”
I let the threat hang.
His eyes sharpened. “You would remove me?”
“If necessary.”
The torches crackled.
For a momen
