Ivy's POV
I flinched backward, and Eric immediately raised his hands in a gesture of peace. "Sorry. What did you say again?"
"The included basic food plan was eliminated ten years ago," I repeated, studying his confused expression. "Why don't you know this? You work here."
"Actually, I don't. I volunteer here," he explained with a casual shrug. "Like I mentioned, this is my hobby, something I genuinely enjoy. It's not like I have pack responsibilities or anyone besides the council demanding my attention."
His dismissive tone about his apparent isolation made me wince internally.
"Does that bother you?" I asked gently, but he waved away my concern.
