Darius's Pov

The words hung in the air and I felt everything inside me go cold. Matteo had actually done it. He had formally challenged me for Alpha in front of the entire pack and now I had to either accept the challenge or step down.

Pack law was very clear on this. Once a challenge was issued there were only two options and backing down was not something I was willing to do.

"I accept your challenge," I said and my voice came out steady despite the fear rushing through me. "When do you want to do this?"

"Right now. In front of everyone. Let the pack see which...