Lyra's POV
His gaze lingered on mine a moment longer than necessary. Then he turned away, his jaw tightening into a hard line.
Nobody omitted their last name by accident during formal introductions. Not when serving as an official representative. Not when addressing an Alpha and Luna on pack business.
This was deliberate.
Kaelen broke the silence first. "What brings you to our territory?" His tone remained diplomatic but guarded.
Elder Gideon shifted forward in his chair. "We represent the Willow Brook Council. Recent developments in an active investigation directly involve your pack."
"Daphne." The name escaped my lips with more confidence than I felt inside.
Four pairs of eyes turned toward me. Elder Beatrice's expression flickered slightly. Recognition crossed her features, or perhaps acknowledgment.
