Chapter 54

Victoria The sharp rap on the door pulled me from sleep far too early. Dawn's first light barely filtered through the curtains as I reluctantly opened my eyes, finding myself still wrapped in Leo's protective embrace on the study sofa. My body ached from the awkward sleeping position, but I couldn't deny the comfort his presence had provided through the night. "Alpha Victoria?"Omega Dolly's gentle voice came through the door. "The council members are beginning to arrive for the seven-thirty meeting you scheduled." I bolted upright, momentarily disoriented. "What time is it?" "Just after six-thirty, Alpha," she replied, the title still strange to my ears. Leo was already awake, his eyes alert despite our uncomfortable night's rest. "You need to shower and change," he said, brushing a strand of hair from my face. "You'll want to look the part today." I nodded, suddenly feeling the weight of what lay ahead. "Tell them I'll be down at seven-fifteen," I called to Dolly. "Have coffee and bre