Elliot didn't have time to process the shift before I moved. Instinct took over as I stepped in, wrapping my arms around Elliot Presgrave and pulling him up with firm urgency, guiding him out of the dense pack energy that still clung to the hall. The surrounding voices blurred as I turned back briefly toward Francis Tillman and the others, offering a composed farewell that masked the tension beneath my breath.
"Everyone, please enjoy your meal. We have something urgent to attend to."
A sharp call from Erica Tillman followed us, but I didn't stop. Elliot moved with me, slightly unsteady, his awareness dulled by the alcohol, yet his instincts still oriented toward me as we left the space. As soon as we were clear of the hall, the pressure of the pack behind us faded, replaced by quieter air that allowed my own instincts to settle.
