LUCIEN's POV
Lucien shifted uncomfortably in the leather chair, his fingers drumming against the armrest. The weight of what he was about to ask pressed down on him like a physical force.
"I need your help getting into Shadowpeak."
The words hung in the air between them like a challenge.
Ryder's hand froze halfway to his mouth, the amber liquid in his glass catching the dim light of the bar. Had he been mid-swallow, the expensive whiskey would have ended up all over the polished mahogany table.
His dark eyes narrowed, studying Lucien's face for any sign of deception or madness. "You want to what now?"
If Lucien had announced his intention to assassinate an Alpha, Ryder wouldn't have batted an eye. But requesting entry into another Pack's territory? That bordered on insanity.
"You heard me correctly." Lucien's jaw tightened, his usual calm demeanor cracking slightly. "I need to be in Shadowpeak."
