Whispers of the Past, An Alpha's Unyielding Hold

The afternoon sun cast long shadows across Rhys Knight's office as he leaned back in his leather chair, eyes fixed on the document before him. The Silver Moon Pack headquarters hummed with activity beyond his door, but inside, a tense silence reigned.

"So," I said, breaking the quiet, "Orion Valerius will be here next week."

Rhys's dark eyes flicked up to meet mine. I'd been his assistant for three years now, and still, that piercing gaze made me nervous.

"Yes, Nero," he replied, his voice smooth and controlled. "Our esteemed rival has finally agreed to discuss the merger." A cold smile curved his lips. "On our territory."

I nodded, making a note on my tablet. "His team mentioned he's bringing his entourage. Including someone they referred to as his 'favorite woman.'"

Rhys stiffened, almost imperceptibly. "Did they specify who?"

"Faye Harrison," I replied. "They said she has a calming effect on him during negotiations."