Bystander whispering filled the great hall of Barduff Castle as Alpha Jacob and Alpha Marcus Irving of White Dawn met. When Marcus first met Leah, it was obvious that he had more in mind than trade agreements, even if the two powerful leaders had gathered to discuss them.
Leah had been standing behind Jacob, composed, as Luna of the Nightwind Pack. But Marcus's observant eye was not lost. He observed her so intently that she shifted uncomfortably. His admiration was clear, and when he spoke, his words had an undeniable beauty.
Marcus's strong voice echoed across the hallway as he continued, "It is an honor to meet the Luna of Nightwind." "A woman of such strength and grace is a rare sight indeed."
Jacob's jaw tensed as he stood next to Leah."Leah is my mate and the rightful Luna of this pack."
Marcus smiled in spite of Jacob's possessive tone. Alpha Jacob, of course. But tell me, is she feeling the same way? A Luna should be paired with an Alpha who recognizes her worth in every way.
Around the crowd, there were gasps as Marcus's words took hold. Leah's eyes widened as Jacob's face clouded with anger. Despite the fact that the open challenge was disrespectful to his authority, Marcus remained calm and concentrated solely on Leah.
Jacob snarled and stepped closer, saying, "You speak boldly for a guest in my home,"
Marcus laughed. "All I say is the truth. And maybe Luna should make her own decisions about where she really belongs.
Leah felt her heart thumping in her chest. Although she knew Marcus was making trouble and testing the waters, she was astounded by how daring his acts were. The suspense in the hall was great as the entire pack awaited Jacob's response.
Jacob's wolf pierced under his skin as he balled his fists. "Leah is mine, and I will not tolerate any disrespect toward her or our bond."
In response to his glance, Marcus grinned and bowed a little. "Then prove it."
Marcus turned on his heel after saying that, leaving a trail of uncertainty in his wake. Knowing that this was far from the end, Leah inhaled deeply. The battle for her love was just getting started.