#Chapter 23: Unwanted Assistance

I adjusted my blazer one final time before knocking on Raymond's office door. The leather portfolio in my hands contained weeks of preliminary work for the Mating Gala—venue options, catering proposals, entertainment suggestions, and a detailed budget breakdown. As the new Luna, organizing this traditional event was my first major responsibility to the pack. "Enter," Raymond called. I pushed open the heavy wooden door to find Raymond and Kane hunched over maps spread across the massive desk. Both looked up as I entered, Raymond's expression immediately shifting from engagement to mild annoyance. "What is it, Aurora?" he asked, already turning back to the maps. "We're in the middle of discussing territory matters." I stepped forward, undeterred. "The Mating Gala planning needs your approval. I've prepared all the options and budget considerations." Raymond sighed heavily. "Can't this wait? Kane and I are working on something important." The dismissal stung, but I persisted.