Chapter 27. Seeds of Doubt

Alison’s POV

The scent of roasted meat and fresh herbs filled the grand hall as the pack gathered, their voices a low hum of anticipation. I stood at the head of the room, watching the steady stream of pack members settle into their seats. My chest tightened, but I kept my chin high, masking my nerves. Tonight’s ceremony was crucial.. a chance to prove myself.

Katherine’s words from earlier echoed in my mind.

“This is your chance, Alison,” she had said, her icy tone unmistakable. “If you can’t handle the responsibility of a simple pack gathering, how will you ever manage as Luna?”

Her cold gaze was a weight I couldn’t shake. She’d made it clear: failure wasn’t an option. And I wouldn’t give her or Caitlyn the satisfaction of seeing me falter.

“Everything is ready,” I told myself, adjusting the silver bracelet Xander had gifted me. The decorations, the food, the seating arrangements, I had overseen it all. No one could accuse me of being unprepare