I had already learned one truth carved deep into my instincts—never let a bond form without caution, especially not with an Alpha whose presence could bend the air around you. Because once you were marked by attention like that, suffering was almost always the price. And worse, the pack world never forgot weakness once it was exposed, not even for a moment of hesitation.
A knock broke through my thoughts before I could even settle into work.
Aliona stepped inside.
She wore an all-white suit, too clean, too controlled, like a wolf masking intent beneath polished fur. Her scent hit the room before her words did—sweet on the surface, but sharpened underneath. She approached my desk with a smile that didn't reach her eyes, the kind of smile used when claws are already hidden behind diplomacy.
"Anastasia," she said brightly. "I want to have a chat with you."
