"You're losing control, Ethan," Marcus said, his voice dripping with mockery. He leaned against the edge of the table in the meeting hall, arms crossed. "And everyone knows it."
Ethan's eyes locked onto Marcus, his tone measured but sharp. "If you have something to say, Marcus, say it. Otherwise, get out of my way."
"Oh, I'll say it," Marcus replied, standing tall. "This pack deserves better than an Alpha who's distracted and weak. You're too busy chasing shadows to see what's happening right in front of you."
The room fell silent. The pack members seated around the table exchanged uneasy glances. Tension crackled in the air, thick enough to stifle every breath.
One of the younger wolves, Rachel, spoke up hesitantly. "Marcus, maybe this isn't the time—"
Marcus turned to her, his voice cutting. "It's exactly the time. We've been quiet long enough."
—
