Riley's POV
The walk to Alpha Marcus's office feels endless, each step heavier than the last. My heart pounds against my ribs as Caleb's fingers intertwine with mine, offering silent comfort. When we finally arrive, Marcus and Elena are already positioned behind the massive oak desk, their expressions grave and unreadable.
Caleb guides me to one of the leather chairs facing them, settling beside me with protective closeness. The silence stretches between us like a taut wire, threatening to snap at any moment. I can feel their eyes boring into me, studying my face as if searching for something I don't understand.
Whatever they're about to tell me, they're dreading it as much as I am.
