The first light of dawn broke across the horizon, casting golden hues over the StoneWare Pack’s walls as Gareth approached on horseback. His cloak fluttered behind him in the chilly morning breeze, his sharp eyes scanning the towering gates. The scent of damp earth and the faint sounds of pack activity greeted him as he dismounted with practiced ease.
He strode confidently toward the guards stationed at the entrance, his expression calm yet calculated. The guards eyed him warily, their hands instinctively resting on their weapons.
“I’m here to see Alpha Aiden,” Gareth declared, his voice carrying the weight of authority.
One guard stepped forward, his brows furrowing in suspicion. “State your business.”
Gareth offered a tight, practiced smile. “It concerns Mira, your soon-to-be Luna. I have information your Alpha will find… invaluable.”
The guards exchanged glances, their hesitation clear. After a brief, silent exchange, one of them nodded. “Wait here.”
Gareth remained still, his gaze cool and unwavering as the guard disappeared through the gates. Moments later, the gates creaked open, and Gareth was ushered inside. He followed silently, his boots echoing against the stone path leading to the pack’s grand hall.
***
Alpha Aiden sat at the head of a long table, his posture regal yet imposing. His piercing eyes followed Gareth as he entered, flanked by two guards. The room exuded authority, its high ceilings and polished wood gleaming in the morning light.
“You’ve come unannounced,” Aiden began, his voice sharp. “Explain yourself.”
Gareth offered a respectful bow, though the smirk on his lips betrayed his true intentions. “Alpha Aiden, I am Gareth, an emissary from a neighboring pack. My business here is simple yet urgent—it concerns the woman you intend to make your Luna.”
Aiden leaned forward slightly, his expression hardening. “Mira? What about her?”
Gareth clasped his hands behind his back, taking a measured step closer. “She’s not who you think she is. Mira is a thief, a fugitive who escaped punishment in my pack. I’ve come to retrieve her and ensure justice is served.”
The air in the room grew heavy as Aiden’s eyes narrowed. “A thief?” he repeated, his tone skeptical. “That’s an interesting accusation, considering another Alpha claimed her as his mate not long ago. Why should I believe you?”
Gareth tilted his head, his smirk widening. “I understand your doubts, Alpha. But Mira’s crimes are well-documented. She fled our pack after stealing valuable resources, leaving chaos in her wake. My pack has suffered greatly because of her actions.”
Aiden’s brow furrowed, his fingers tapping against the armrest of his chair. “Why would an Alpha claim a fugitive as his mate? Your story doesn’t add up.”
“Desperation makes fools of us all,” Gareth replied smoothly. “Perhaps Kaelan sought to use her for his own gain. Regardless, Mira belongs to my pack, and I am here to take her back.”
Aiden studied Gareth for a long moment. Finally, he leaned back in his chair, his expression unreadable. “Guards,” he said, his voice cold, “escort him out.”
The guards stepped forward, their movements swift and decisive. But Gareth remained calm, raising a hand to halt them. “Wait,” he said, his voice cutting through the tension. “I’m willing to pay you.”
The room fell silent, Aiden’s sharp gaze locking onto Gareth. “Excuse me?”
Gareth took a measured step forward, his smirk unwavering. “Name your price, Alpha Aiden. Whatever you desire, I can provide it. Gold, resources, alliances—whatever it takes to secure her return.”