Aurora's POV
The grand ballroom of the Alpha Gathering buzzed with activity, a sea of finely dressed werewolves mingling and politicking. I stood at the edge, feeling like a fish out of water in my midnight blue gown. Ethan's hand rested possessively on the small of my back, a constant reminder of his presence.
"Smile, Aurora," he murmured, his breath warm against my ear. "You look stunning, but these Alphas respond to confidence."
I plastered on a fake smile, my eyes scanning the crowd. That's when I saw him – Alpha Conner of the Blood Moon Pack. His reputation preceded him: ruthless, cunning, and always getting what he wanted. As our eyes met across the room, a chill ran down my spine. The hunger in his gaze was unmistakable.
Ethan tensed beside me, clearly noticing the exchange. "St
