Thane's pov

The room grew silent after my question. Dre’s mother, whose calm demeanor never wavered, leaned forward slightly, her piercing gaze fixed on mine. Her smile softened, but her eyes carried the weight of untold stories.

“There is always a price, Alpha Thane,” she said, her tone steady. “But not all prices are paid in blood or gold. In this case, the price is trust and the strength to uphold the alliance you seek.”

I frowned, not entirely convinced. “And what does this trust entail? I hope you understand that while we are desperate, we are not fools. If this deal puts my people or my family at unnecessary...