Raven

The murmurs of the gathering fade as Dylan leads me to a private room, a place where the clink of glasses and the low hum of conversations can't reach us.

I'm aware of Hunter's piercing gaze on my back as we walk away, and part of me relishes the thought that this might get under his skin.

After all, he's the one who pushed me away.

Inside the room, the din of the crowd is replaced by a silence that amplifies my heartbeat.

Dylan closes the door with a soft click, and I take a deep breath, reminding myself I'm here for business, to discuss his pack's legal issues.

"Let's discuss those legal strategies," Dylan says, settling into the leather chair.

I shuffle through were-law knowledge long left dormant. "Proving historical territory claims is key in disputes," I explain. "Evidence of long occupation strengthens your position."

Dylan nods, but looks troubled. "With packs encroaching lately, I need to know my assets are protected if it comes to a fight."

I understand his concern. Pack disputes follow ruthless logic beyond human laws.

"Filing territory maps with the Council could reinforce boundaries," I suggest. "Or insurance for assets, tailored to pack risks."

Dylan's eyes light up at insurance. "Yes, something like that could help, given the Larkspurs' activity up north." He shudders subtly at the notorious pack's name.

"I can explore custom policy options accounting for pack dynamics," I assure him. Protecting his people offers needed purpose.

Dylan smiles. "Excellent. A valuable conversation." He pauses, holding my gaze. "Great potential in this partnership..."

He leans forward, his eyes locked on mine, a glint of respect—or perhaps something else—flickering within. "I knew you were more than just a pretty face," he says, a flirtatious edge to his voice.

I ignore the flirtation, focusing instead on the rush of confidence that comes from exercising my intellect, something I've been denied for so long.

He looks at me intently. "I'm glad you're the one helping with this. You know, since you're... available now."

The word 'available' hangs in the air, heavy and uncomfortable. I feel a pang in my chest, thinking of Hunter and the complicated tangle of emotions I still have for him.

But I push those feelings aside, reminding myself that I'm here to make a name for myself, independent of any Alpha.

"Let's keep this about the legal matters, Dylan," I say firmly. "That's what's important right now."

Dylan leans back, a sly grin playing on his lips. "Come on, Raven," he drawls, his eyes scanning me with an intensity that feels like a physical touch. He sniffs the air subtly, a suggestive smirk appearing. "You can't hide anything from a wolf, you know. Your pheromones are quite... revealing."

Heat rushes to my cheeks, both from embarrassment and indignation. How dare he insinuate...?

"We could have some fun here," Dylan continues, undeterred by my discomfort. "A little secret between us. Hunter would never have to know."

Internally, I recoil at the thought. The idea of using Dylan or anyone else to get back at Hunter, to ease the sting of our separation, is repugnant to me. Not because of loyalty to Hunter—no, he shattered that when he left—but because of my own principles.

"Dylan," I say, my voice colder now, "I'm here strictly for professional reasons. Your pack's security and legal standing are my only focus. Let's not blur the lines."

Rising from my seat, I'm ready to end this uncomfortable meeting with Dylan. I need space, a breath of fresh air to cleanse the stifling atmosphere. But as I stand, Dylan steps into my personal space, his proximity blocking my path.

"Raven, reconsider," he murmurs, his voice low and coercive. The repulsion washes over me like a cold wave.

"Excuse me, Dylan," I say, my voice steady despite the storm of disgust brewing inside me. I sidestep him, but he mirrors my movements, a predatory glint in his eyes.

I've had enough. With a swift motion, I shove him away. He stumbles back, the surprise and indignation clear on his face as he crashes to the floor.

"What the hell?" Dylan snaps, getting up and dusting himself off. "Harvey led me to believe you were... open to... negotiations."

"Harvey was wrong," I cut him off sharply, my heart pounding in my chest.

I hold Dylan's gaze steadily. "Think carefully. Harassing an Alpha's daughter has severe political consequences."

Dylan's smirk disappears. He looks away awkwardly. "You're completely right. I got carried away and wasn't thinking."

He glances up sheepishly. "No more misconduct, I swear it. Let's keep this professional."

Dylan extends his hand tentatively. I consider it before shaking firmly.

"Apology accepted. I look forward to talking to you more next week."

Needing a quiet moment after all this tension, I leave the lounge and make my way to the ladies' room. I splash water on my face, gathering my whirling thoughts.

Suddenly, the door opens and Hunter strides in. Before I can react, he locks the door behind him. Leaning against the wall with his arms crossed, his expression is unreadable.

"Hunter..." I say uncertainly, startled by his entrance. "Did you need something?