Chapter 12. She Is a Rogue

KAELAN

“Alpha King,” Elder Jonas greeted. His graying hair was a testament to his decades of service to our kingdom. His tone was respectful, but the unease in his eyes betrayed his intentions.

“Elders,” I said, standing tall. “I summoned you all here to introduce my mate to you. Her name is Everly and she is from the Silver Cross, one of the pack’s within our kingdom.”

Jonas exchanged a glance with Elder Miriam, the oldest and often most vocal member of the council. She’s also Seraphina ‘s mother.

“Oh you found a mate,” Miriam said, her voice sharp. “ And her name is Everly.”

The sound of Everly’s name on Miriam’s tongue sent a flicker of anger through me, but I kept my face neutral. “Yes?”

“She is… a rogue,” Jonas began delicately. “We understand if you claim she is your mate, but her arrival has stirred unease among some of the pack.”

“Unease?” I echoed, my voice dangerously low.

Miriam folded her hands with a stern expression. “She