Aria's POV
The Chief Elder's face hardened. "Aria, no one is questioning your ability to rule a pack on your own, but you need to have a mate for stability."
"You can dress it up however you want." My voice rose. "You can call it stability. You can call it hierarchy. You can call it protection." I stepped closer. "But I know what it is." I pointed at the Council table. "It is fear."
The word echoed through the chamber.
Lydia lifted her head inside me. Go on, say it.
"You are afraid of what happens when a woman possesses enough power that she doesn't need permission from men like you."
Several elders bristled. Damon's eyes widened slightly. Ryder looked like he was trying very hard not to smile. Noah remained completely still, but there was something approving in his gaze.
The Chief
