King Jaron had already settled the matter with Vladimir last night, and the last thing he ever expected was for the older man to turn around and tell Voren every detail.
If he had managed to take that little girl away when the chance first appeared, every one of his problems would have vanished like smoke in a hard wind. Now his only real option was to cling to whatever alliance might still keep his pack from collapsing under the weight of everything he owed.
"Alpha Voren," Jaron began, forcing his voice to stay even while the muscles in his jaw worked hard against the urge to snap, "let's discuss this in private."
"No." Voren didn't hesitate for even a heartbeat. "You threatened me in front of everyone here." His eyes swept slowly over the gathered warriors and servants, taking in every tense face and dropped gaze before settling back on Jaron with open contempt. "Unlike you, I still have my pride."
