#Chapter 19 – Apex Predator

Ethan's POV Marlus’s words cut through my thoughts like a knife. “The Alpha Council vote is in ten days,” he reminded me. "We’ve secured four votes, including the one Olivia locked in for us." I nodded, the weight of the impending vote pressing heavily on my mind. It was another reason to keep my focus on the pack, not on personal feelings that couldn’t go anywhere. Olivia had done her part, securing a crucial vote through Alpha Gideon’s daughter, and I had to stay sharp, play the long game. Marlus handed me an envelope. “There’s a birthday party coming up. An undecided Alpha we could sway. His vote could tip the balance.” I took the invitation from him, glancing at it. The VIP room at Apex Nighclub. It didn’t surprise me. Alpha Kade had a notorious reputation as a playboy: mistresses, wild parties, the works. Exactly the kind of thing I hated. “Should I inform your Luna?” Marlus asked, watching me carefully. I paused. The thought of Olivia in a place like that… No, I wo