Mason's POV
The pack house was quiet as I paced in my father's old office—my office now, I suppose. The weight of leadership sat heavily on my shoulders, made all the heavier by the suspicions and doubts that had been plaguing me since my father's death.
A soft knock at the door interrupted my brooding. "Come in," I called out, straightening up and trying to look more composed than I felt.
Lucas, my newly appointed Beta, and longtime friend, slipped into the room. His face was grave, and I felt my stomach tighten with anticipation.
"You have news?" I asked, unable to keep the eagerness out of my voice.
Lucas nodded, closing the door behind her. "I do, but you won't like it, Mason."
I gestured for him to sit, taking my seat behind the desk. "Tell me everything."
Lucas took a deep bre
