It was the next day and I settled into the business meeting with Dante, ready to discuss the usual matters concerning our pack. I was caught off guard when he abruptly interrupted me, his words sent a chill down my spine as he revealed the true purpose of our meeting.

"We need to get married"

"What!" I replied.

"Dante, I thought we were here to discuss the war with Hazan?” My tone was laced with confusion.

Dante's expression remained impassive as he cut me off. "I'm sorry, Erica, but that's not why I asked you here," he replied.

"The council of Elders has been pressuring me about our pack's future....