Avery's breath caught. "You're saying you don't trust me."
The elder woman's gaze softened slightly. "It's not personal, Avery. It's about the safety of the pack."
Ethan stepped forward, his presence commanding. "Avery is under my protection. If you want to limit her access, you'll have to go through me."
The room grew tense as the elders exchanged glances.
"This isn't over, Ethan," the male elder said finally. "The truth will come out."
Ethan's eyes narrowed. "It always does."
---
As the meeting ended, Avery lingered behind, her thoughts swirling. Ethan placed a hand on her shoulder.
"Don't let them get to you," he said softly.
"But what if they're right?" she whispered.
"They're not," he said firmly. "And even if they were, it wouldn't change anything. You're with me, Avery. That's all that matters."
