Vanessa's face flushed with anger.
"Elder, this is my mating ceremony!"
Her voice echoed across the hall.
"Whatever happened in my mate's past is none of the Council's business."
She moved closer to Rafe, wrapping her arm through his possessively.
"I chose to give the Alpha title to my mate. It is my choice to become the Luna of Stone Claw instead of its Alpha."
Her eyes narrowed toward Talon and Diana.
"And now all of you are questioning my decisions because the Alpha King and Luna Queen don't approve."
The accusation hung heavily in the air.
"You are allowing them to manipulate you."
Murmurs spread through the crowd once more. Several wolves exchanged uncertain looks. Others looked offended on behalf of the Elders. Diana remained silent. Willow rolled her eyes. Damon looked sec
