The dining of the Alpha suite was alive with warmth and noise—the kind that only existed when family gathered without pretense or ceremony. The oak table was filled end to end, candles flickering between platters of roasted meat, bowls of vegetables, fresh bread still steaming, and pitchers of juice and wine passed easily from hand to hand. Laughter bounced off the walls, mingling with the soft crackle of the hearth fire.
This—Elaine thought as she watched them all—was her favorite tradition.
Twice a month, no matter how busy pack life became, no matter how many disputes, patrols, or council matters demanded attention, the Alpha unit and their families sat down together as one. No titles. No hierarchy. Just food, noise, and shared space.
At the head of the table sat Alpha Darius, relaxe
