Chapter 43. The Harsh Reality

That same day, as the sun began to sink toward the horizon, the grand celebration slowly drew to its end. The invited guests, one after another, began preparing to return to their various packs. Damian made certain each of them departed in satisfaction—whether through shared laughter, reassurances of old alliances, or private meetings where promises and bargains were exchanged. By the time the last of them rode out with smiles on their faces, the air of festivity had thinned into quiet calm.

Only Theo and Rina remained behind.

An hour later, a summons came for them. They entered Damian’s study together, where Lucian and Liam were already waiting. The room carried a heavy stillness, lit only by the glow of the fireplace.

At once, Theo and Rina lowered their heads, their knees beginning to bend as though to plead. But Damian’s voice cut through the silence.

“Do not kneel.”

The command rooted them where they stood.

“I have thought on this matter,” Da