Chapter 19: The Alpha's Claim

I peer out my window at the guests arriving, feeling very nervous despite my confidence in my outfit. No matter what I’m wearing, I am still an outsider and will be judged accordingly. At least Carl will be happy I’m there.

But only because he gets to be there too, with his pack, that self-deprecating voice inside me says. I shake off my insecurity, paste on my game face and open the door. Carl’s eyes widen and he starts to stutter.

“Ms. Raven...you look...very nice...the Alpha will be pleased...very pleased,” he remarks and I give him a smile.

“Thank you, Carl. Shall we?” I ask and he holds up his arm in a gentlemanly manner. I take it and he leads me down the stairs.