Killian's pov
"The contract was clear, Elias," I told him, my voice devoid of the pity I actually felt. "You missed the deadline and the extensions. In your world's law and certainly in mine, that means the collateral is no longer yours to claim. She belongs to the pack now."
"But I'm close," Elias pleaded. "I just need a little more time."
I sighed, looking at the desperation in his eyes. I knew the truth, though. Lucian would never let her go. Elara was the only thing anchoring his madness, without her, my brother would be a mindless beast.
"Keep the money for now," I said, trying to offer him some shred of hope just to get him moving. "Go back home. Work on getting the other half. When you have the full amount, call me. We'll discuss it then."
It was a lie, but it was a merciful one. He nodded frantically, clutching that crumpled envelope before he finally disappeared through the gate.
