Um..." Marco's voice rises above the crowd. "I still don't want to do it but... ouch?"
"You're an awesome packmate, Marco," Sergi continues. "Heck, you're one of the most dedicated, loyal people I've ever met. I love you. You know that. But," his voice is firm, unyielding, and in a flash you come to the crystal clear realisation that if the Alpha weren't the Alpha, Sergi probably would be. "It should be Gideon Mercer."
To your shock, another murmur of agreement rolls through the gathered pack. Someone reaches out and gives your shoulder a comforting squeeze.
Unfortunately for them, you don't feel particularly comforted.
"Gideon Mercer," the Alpha calls out, his dark eyes finding you effortlessly among the crowd. "Will you meet with the vampire Blackwell and talk to him on our behalf?"