Damien's expression darkened at Annie's words. He leant forward, his arms crossing on the table, tension radiating from him like a cold wind. His eyes locked onto hers, sharp and serious.
"Annie, Ryan will never be hidden away. He's my son—our son—and nothing will change that," Damien said, his voice low but resolute. "I would never let him be treated like some illegitimate secret."
Annie's lips tightened as she searched his face for any sign of doubt.
"That's easier said than done." She muttered.
Damien's jaw clenched, his hand instinctively gripping his cup, the tension visible in his fingers.
"We've been through this argument before. There's no need to bring it up again."
Annie exhaled slowly, but her concern remained. "Damien. But I've seen the way your world works. Wolves, packs... the politics, the status. You never went through things that I have experienced."
