#Chapter 85 – Testing the Water

Olivia's POV The meeting room hummed with quiet energy, the kind that settled deep into your bones and demanded your attention. Thorne Ridge and Stone Haven’s elders gathered in a semicircle, their expressions ranging from neutral curiosity to guarded skepticism. Despite their differences, they shared one thing in common: a fierce dedication to their Packs. I stood at the head of the room, steadying my breathing as their gazes landed on me. The weight of leadership was something I was starting to accept over time but standing before this group – each a repository of wisdom and experience – I couldn’t help but feel a flicker of doubt. “Thank you all for meeting today,” I began, my voice steady despite the swirl of nerves beneath the surface. “I wanted to bring us together as we work toward connecting our Packs. Your insight is invaluable, and I want to make sure your voices are heard.” An older man with streaks of silver in his hair leaned forward, his piercing gaze assess