#Chapter 76 – Council Summons

Olivia's POV My phone buzzed sharply, interrupting my train of thought. Seeing Derek’s name on the screen immediately set my nerves on edge. “Olivia,” his voice was clipped, as always, but I caught the faint edge of urgency. “The Alpha Council has called an emergency meeting. You’re expected to attend.” “Why?” I asked, gripping the phone tighter. “Matthew is refusing to speak to anyone but you,” Derek said. “And the Council wants answers. Be here in an hour.” The line went dead, leaving me with a growing knot of unease. This wasn’t a request it was a summons. I had no choice but to comply, whether I wanted to or not. Anger permeated the Council chamber as I stepped through the heavy oak doors. The Alphas seated around the circular table looked up, their emotions a mix of curiosity, skepticism, and thinly veiled annoyance. Derek stood near the head of the room, his imposing presence commanding silence. His eyes locked on mine briefly, unreadable as always. But I felt