I sat quietly in my seat, forcing my breathing to stay even despite the restless movement of my wolf beneath my skin. Then I felt it—a subtle shift in the air, like the pack itself adjusting. I lifted my head and saw a group of guests entering, their voices low, respectful, as they gathered around the man at the front.
Elliot.
Even from across the room, his presence pressed against my senses. He stood in a black suit, composed and sharp, but tonight there was something different. His aura wasn't the overwhelming dominance of an Alpha asserting control. It was quieter, restrained, almost refined—but no less dangerous.
The pull of him didn't weaken.
My gaze lingered longer than it should have, drawn by something deeper than curiosity. My wolf stirred, restless, recognizing him in a way I didn't want to understand. Then, as if he felt it, his eyes lifted and locked onto mine across the room.
The bond tightened instantly.
