Chapter 21

Victoria The women approached in what seemed like formation, led by a regal-looking redhead whose graceful movements spoke of decades of pack politics. "Alpha Leo," she greeted with practiced charm before turning her emerald gaze to me. "And this must be your... unexpected Luna." "Luna Regina of the Silver Lake Pack," Leo introduced. "My mate, Victoria Moretti from Howlthorne Pack." Regina's smile was calculating as she extended her hand. "Such a pleasure. We were all quite surprised when Leo announced his mating. He's been... resistant to commitment for so long." I shook her hand firmly, meeting her gaze. "Sometimes the right connection changes everything." "Hmm, connection," echoed a willowy blonde beside Regina. "Is that what they call it these days?" "Luna Cassandra," Leo introduced, warning evident in his tone. "Mountain Ridge Pack." Cassandra's smile. "Forgive my directness, but we're all curious. How does a half-human with no awakened wolf captivate one of the most powerful Alph