Draven.
Meredith's expression didn't shift. But the silence around her was heavy and pressing.
I set the glass aside and leaned forward, steady and deliberate.
"I married you because the Council and all the other older Alphas were already circling me like wolves starved for power. Each of them wanted their daughters on the throne next to me since I hadn't found my mate. And had I chosen one, the others would have risen against me."
I released a short breath and continued, "It would have torn the clans into war before I had even worn the crown. So, by claiming you, Meredith, I silenced them. You were the only one they could not use as a weapon, the only choice that would not ignite their greed."
A pause stretched between us, the weight of the truth settling into the air.
