He nodded, jaw tight but accepting. “I understand. I’m here to protect and to serve you, the Alpha and the pack. That’s enough.”
I allowed myself a small nod, internal relief flickering briefly. His presence could help stabilize the pack, help rebuild trust, but only if he respected my boundaries.
Turning back to the rest of the pack, I raised my voice slightly, projecting authority, clarity. “We’ve been through a lot. Some of you let fear, doubt or manipulation influence your decisions. That cannot happen again. This pack is stronger than any one wolf. Stronger than any intruder. Stronger than anyone who tries to divide us.”
The twins shifted slightly at my words, the tightness in their bodies softening just a fraction. Their eyes flicked toward me, Asher, then Elias, searching for con
