Chapter 22. Facing the Rivals

Alison’s POV

I hadn’t yet grown used to the weight of their stares.

Every glance that lingered a moment too long, every careful whisper behind cupped hands, it all felt like a constant reminder of the skepticism surrounding my place here. I told myself that they didn’t know me, that in time they’d see who I truly was and what I could offer the Nightfang Pack. But that didn’t make the icy receptions around me any easier to bear.

This morning was no exception.

Breakfast had barely begun when Caitlyn strolled into the room, her presence filling the space with an unspoken authority that most pack members seemed to respect and fear. She moved with a confidence that suggested she already considered herself the Luna of this pack. And why wouldn’t she? Katherine, Xander’s mother, had practically crowned her as the chosen one long before I’d arrived.

“Good morning, Alison,” she greeted me, flashing a smile that didn’t reach her eyes. “I hope you’re settli