Chapter 199

Claire's POV I took a deep breath and stepped inside. The office was huge, with floor-to-ceiling windows showing off the whole city. Everything was black and white—white walls, black furniture, creating a sharp but elegant look. A large, dark wood desk sat in the center, and behind it was Cyrus. He didn't look up when I walked in, focused on the papers spread out in front of him. His dark brown hair was perfectly styled, and his black suit looked custom-made. I caught his scent, a mix of cedar and leather. I stood awkwardly for several seconds, unsure if I should speak. Finally, I cleared my throat. "Alpha," I said softly, thankfully my voice didn't waver. Cyrus looked up, his intense eyes locking with mine. A small smile played at the corners of his mouth. "Claire Pierce," he said, gesturing to the chair across from him. "Sit." I perched on the edge of the chair, back straight, hands folded in my lap like a schoolgirl called to the principal's office. "You're nervous," he observed, le