Xavier leaned back in his chair, eyes narrowing, and for a long, tense moment he didn't answer. His wolf stirred inside him, bristling at the way Ruby reduced Athena to a tool.
Ruby's silver eyes gleamed. "Your enemies would tear you apart if they knew what she really is. Your mother wanted you to lead, to win. To do that, you must use Athena… not cling to her."
A tense silence stretched between them.
Finally, Xavier nodded once, curt and controlled. "You're right. I can't let her cloud my judgment. She's a part of the plan. Nothing more."
Ruby's smile widened, satisfied, though she hid it behind a mask of sympathy. "Good. You've always been pragmatic, Xavier. That's why you'll win. I'll leave you to your work, Alpha. I'm glad we understand each other."
Xavier stood out of courtesy, though his face betrayed nothing. He gave her a single nod, the gesture cold and controlled.
