Chapter 69
Antica claims she knows nothing about Baur’s sudden selection to the Apex circle. I find that hard to believe, health is muste important to me. But I will from henceforili krep a close watch on her every move. I mai
won’t porus her further
Now that Dane has managed to secure a place, he probably thinks he can enjoy all the privileges that come with it. That’s not going in happen, I’ll
nuke use of it
Two days later, I call an impromptu meeting with the members, including Hane. He arrives with that sing stirring in irritation. That I keep my expression neutral, as always.
chis face, and I can feel my wolf
“Thank you all for gathering on such short notice,” Hbegin, my tone calm but firm. “And let’s take a moment to welcome our newest addition to the
A few polite noids follow
“I want to officially welcome you, Dane,” I say, turning my attention to him. “However, I must clarify that your position is currently probationary You are not yet a full ineinber of the Apex circle
Hisbrote furrows, and I can see the confusion or perhaps annoya
this face. Good. He should.
uncomfortable
This decision is not without reason,” I continue, letting my gave sweep over the moon before landing back on him. “Your inclusion was not part of the original selection. You were only comblered after the unfortunate passing of one of our chosen members. Because of this, there are certain bases you do not tick.”
I pause, “The members have expressed concerns. Your selection feels unearned. A position in the Apex circle is not merely given–it must be proven.”
I can feel Dane struggling to maintain his composure.
“Firstly, You are unmarried and, therefore, lack a treognized Lana,
Yusi sa not meet the uncial threshold of having a minimum liquid cash balance of $3 million in your account
Additionally, you will need to prove your worth in combat against one of the existing members–and win“
I patise for emplasis, letting my words sink in. “Until then, you are entitled to limited benefits but cannot participate in all of our meetings or decisions, Onor you fulfill these requirements, only then can you be considered a full member of the Apex circle?
A few munas ripple through the room, but I don’t care. Let them talk. If one thought he could wallz in here and outsmart the Apex circle, he’s about to learn just how challenging this journey will be.
“What?” Diane’s voice cuts through the murmurs, sharp and incredulous. “These requirements were not stated when I was applying
an see the cracks in his composure, Exedy what I want. The more he reacts, the closer he gets to disqualifying himself.
This makes no
Iineet his gaze. “The Apes circle is not for the faint of heart, Dane. It’s a place for those who can meet the highest standards. If you find this unfair.
down you’re welcome to slep
The room falls silent, all eyes on him
“Well, you weren’t our first choice,” I say, my toe sharp and laced with mockery. “Frankly, you weren’t our choice at all. And we both know how things turned out with the original pick*
Dane’s jaw tightens, but he masks it with a measured no. “It’s alright, Alpha. I respect the circle’s decision and find the requirements challenging That’s precisely why I’ll rise to meet them.”
I let out a forced smile, “I’m glad you understand the requirements and take them like a real Alpha. Now, we’ll move on to other matters that don’t concern you. You may leave the meeting.”
I watch the smug look evaporate from his face as he bows slightly and exits the room. His departure feels like a small victory.
One he’s gone, I turn to the remaining members. “Now that we’re clear of interruptions, let’s focus on the real issue at hand–those damn rogues who dared to attack us
Chapter 6
The night is quiet as I make my way home, On my route,
c. 1 spot Mary Iraning agatust a tree, her face drawn in an expression at malappara
“What’s with the long fare?” Task, stopping a few paces away.
She looks up, her lips pressed tight before she speaks
“My Alpha, I’ve been meaning to sprak with you, but you’ve been so occupied with your me
mar
I know she means it tis sting, but I don’t give her the satisfaction of a reaction. “Alright, Mary: Speak your inboud?
something. It’s become
teliat slar’s alone is inforgi
“It’s about Amica. I just wanted to know if you’ve noticed one she always pulls these lande stunts every time shir a pattem, a laba. And every single time, she manages in get away with it. But dus I’m afraid you’re going to let it slide again, like you always in”
my face for a reaction, then adds,
She pauses, studying my i
“I’m sorry, but if you don’t take actions this time, l’uis afraid I’ll have tos”
Her words trail off, the implied tharat lunging in the alc
1 stay quiet for a moment, letting the weight of her audacity settle between us.
“Oli, Mary” I say, my voice dripping with inock ammiscinent. “If I didn’t know better, fil think you past issard a thuit against nor. And if that’s why this is, I’d love to know where you fail the audacity to speak to me in such a manter. Do you losgei who you’re talking to?” | snill,
show of disdain.
Her face pales slightly, Int she holds her grommal.
“I slare you, Mary,” I continor, chuckling darkly, “I dare you in follow thighs with whitever you think you can do, Just try it.”
“My Alpha” she stammers, her earlier confidence faltering. I’m sorry if that sounded | of shit andd-
threat, but I just feel like you let her get away with a dor
“Her” I snap, citing her off. “Her is your Lama, aul you will speak about her with respect!” My growl rumbles through the air, making her flinch
“Oh, Mary,” Ladd with a tired sigh, my patience running thin. “I swear I do not have time for your nonsense today. My Lama is waiting for m unless you have something of real importance to say, you am dismissed.”
Without giving her a chance to reply, I walk away, leaving her standing there with her ridiculous accusations.n
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