Liana returned to the small quarters where Gareth was waiting, her face twisted in rage. He lounged casually in a chair, one leg draped over the armrest, but straightened when he saw her storm in.
“What happened?” Gareth asked, his smirk fading.
“The council,” Liana spat, pacing the room like a caged animal. “They won’t choose me because of Mira. They think it would cause too much controversy.”
Gareth frowned, tapping his chin thoughtfully. “And Kaelan?”
“He told them to end the selection entirely,” Liana said, her voice rising. “He ordered them to disperse the candidates. He’s protecting Mira. Again.”
Gareth leaned back, a sly grin creeping onto his face. “So he thinks he can just shut this down? Interesting. Perhaps it’s time we bring your father into the equation.”
Liana paused, her anger cooling into calculated determination. “You think he’ll help?”
Gareth shrugged. “He’s ambitious, and he’s invested in your success. If anyone can sway Kaelan—or force his hand—it’s him.”
Within the hour, they were on the road, heading back to their family estate. Liana’s father, Lord Victor, greeted them in his study, his sharp eyes narrowing as he listened to their recounting of events.
When Liana finished, her father sat back in his chair, his expression contemplative. “This is unacceptable,” he said finally, his voice cold. “Kaelan’s refusal to follow tradition is a threat to the pack’s stability. If he will not choose you willingly, then we will ensure he has no choice.”
“How?” Liana asked, leaning forward eagerly.
Victor stood, his presence commanding. “Leave that to me.”
***
Three days later, Victor arrived at Alpha Kaelan’s fortress, his carriage gleaming under the morning sun. The guards escorted him to the Alpha’s private chambers, where Kaelan greeted him warily.
“Lord Victor,” Kaelan said, his tone neutral. “To what do I owe this visit?”
Victor wasted no time with pleasantries. “Your selection ceremony was canceled, and yet my daughter remains a strong candidate. I believe we need to revisit the matter.”
Kaelan’s jaw tightened. “With all due respect, Lord Victor, I’ve made my position clear. I will not be choosing a Luna at this time.”
Victor’s gaze was piercing. “And yet, the council is insistent. They see your lack of action as weakness. If you do not choose, they will take matters into their own hands.”
Kaelan’s expression darkened, but Victor continued. “Liana is the obvious choice. She has the bloodline, the strength, and the loyalty to serve as Luna. She has a strong wolf. The pack would rally behind her.”
Kaelan shook his head. “I’m not ready to take another mate.”
Victor’s lips curled into a faint smile. “Then do not take her as your mate yet. Announce your intent. That alone will satisfy the council and stabilize the pack.”
Kaelan hesitated, the weight of Victor’s words pressing down on him. He knew the council’s demands were growing louder, and his refusal to comply risked fracturing the pack further.
“I’ll consider it,” Kaelan said finally, his voice clipped.
Victor inclined his head. “That’s all I ask.”