The First Alpha's Interpretive Dance

ROMAN

"You have got to be kidding me."

I stared at the sign mocking our last-place finish, feeling a mix of disbelief and growing dread. As Alpha of the Silverclaw Pack, I commanded respect wherever I went. People bowed their heads when I entered a room. They sought my approval, my guidance, my strength.

And now I was about to make a complete ass of myself in front of all of them.

"Attention, everyone!" The Luna's voice rang out across the courtyard, where what seemed like the entire pack had gathered around the fountain. "As is tradition, our last-place team must perform the Howl of Humility!"

Cheers and howls erupted from the crowd. I caught sight of Fabian in the front row, bouncing excitedly on his toes between Vanessa's parents.

"But," the Luna continued with a mischievous gleam in her eye, "since our losers are such a special pair, we've prepared something extra memorable!"