uncer 282

Chapter 282 

ALEXANDER 

Cole was already inside the office when I arrived. 

He stood near the desk with a folder in his hands, posture straight, expression focused. If he’d been waiting long, he didn’t show it. 

“You’re early,” I said, setting my jacket aside. 

He shrugged lightly. “Didn’t want to forget anything.” 

That alone told me he’d taken the council meeting seriously. I crossed the room and took the folder from him, flipping it open as I sat behind the desk. He’d written everything out neatly- dates, logistics, proposed invitations, security rotations, resource allocation. Typical Cole. Thorough to the point of obsession. 

I scanned the pages in silence, nodding now and then as things fell into place. Nothing jumped out as unreasonable. Nothing reckless. 

When I reached the end, I closed the folder and set it down. 

“We can make do with this,” I said. 

Cole let out a small breath, like he’d been holding it. “Good.” 

Then his expression shifted, more careful now. “There is one thing, though.” 

I leaned back slightly. “Go on.” 

“The cost,” he said. “Hosting an event of this scale–multiple packs, extended stays, food, entertainment, security–it adds up quickly. Strengthening alliances is fine, but we’d be paying for a lot of people to come here, drink, eat, and enjoy themselves on our dime.” 

I didn’t interrupt. I’d expected this part. 

He continued, laying it out calmly. Numbers, projections, comparisons to previous gatherings from years ago. Blood Crescent hadn’t hosted anything like this in a long time. Back then, it had been easier. Smaller packs. Less tension. Fewer eyes watching for weakness. 

When he finished, he looked at me expectantly. 

“I know it’s expensive,” I said. “But it’s necessary.” 

Cole tilted his head slightly. “Because of alliances?” 

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“Not just that,” I replied. “Blood Crescent has been… closed off lately.” 

He didn’t argue. 

+25 Points 

“Too much of our recent history has been internal,” I went on. “Us dealing with our own threats, our own losses, our own recovery–celebrating victory amongst ourselves. We’ve been looking inward for so long that we’ve forgotten what it feels like to exist among others.” 

I paused, choosing my words carefully. 

“There was a time when this pack wasn’t always braced for impact. When gatherings weren’t strategic moves but actual celebrations. We deserve a reminder of that.” 

Cole studied my face, then nodded slowly. 

“And honestly,” I added, “I don’t think reopening the door to other packs is a bad idea. Letting them see us steady, united, relaxed–it sends a message stronger than any show of force.” 

He considered that. “That we’re not isolated.” 

“That we’re not afraid,” I corrected. 

I leaned forward slightly. “Besides, Blood Crescent has carried a lot. If there’s ever been a moment we’ve earned a little relaxation, it’s now.” 

Silence settled between us–not tense. 

“I’ll speak with Elder Peter,” I said after a moment. “We’ll assess the finances properly. But I’m confident we’re stable enough to host.” 

Cole nodded. “I can go to him tonight, if you want. Talk through the numbers first. Then tomorrow morning, we can meet you with the outcome.” 

I looked at him then–really looked at him. 

“You’re being extra helpful today,” I said. 

He blinked. “Am I?” 

“You agreed to sit in on the council meeting without arguing once,” I pointed out. “And now you’re volunteering for errands.” 

He shifted his weight, clearly uncomfortable. “I just thought it would save time.” 

I didn’t let it go. “Really?” He knew I wouldn’t believe that. 

He sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. “Fine.” 

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He hesitated, then spoke. “I just think… you should spend more time with your mate.” 

I raised an eyebrow. 

+25 Points) 

“She’s strong,” he continued quickly. “Everyone can see that. But it doesn’t mean she doesn’t need you. And lately-” He stopped himself, then pushed on. “I think she needs you now more than ever. Let me handle the parts I can.” 

I didn’t respond immediately. 

Not because he was wrong, but because he’d said it without accusation. Without judgment. Just concern. 

A smile tugged at my mouth despite myself. “I appreciate the thought.” 

He relaxed a little. 

“But,” I added, “I’ll handle this one myself.” 

Cole nodded, accepting it. “Fair enough.” 

Then, almost as an afterthought, I turned back to him. 

“Oh. And by the way,” I said, “you should invite that mate of yours this time. I mean it.” 

He froze. 

I smirked. “Don’t blame me if I start to think she’s a myth.” 

His eyes narrowed. “She is not… she’s more real than your conscience.” 

I laughed. 

“Okay then. I’m dying to meet her at this point,” I went on, deliberately casual. “You talk about her like she exists, but no one’s seen her.” 

He folded his arms across his chest. “For the last time, she does exist.” 

“Sure,” I replied. 

He opened his mouth to launch into what I suspected would be another long defense when a familiar voice cut in from the doorway. 

“She’s real.” 

Both of us turned. 

Faye stood there, arms folded loosely, amusement written all over her face. 

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I stared. “What?” 

She smiled and stepped further into the office. “I said she’s real. I’ve met her.” 

Cole lit up instantly. “See?” 

I blinked again. “You’ve met her?” 

“Yes,” Faye said easily. “Her name is Anna.” 

+25 Points 

Cole looked like he’d just won an argument he’d been fighting for years. He pointed at me. “I told you.” 

I shook my head slowly. “No. I’m not convinced.” 

Faye laughed softly. “Why are you acting like this is impossible?” 

“Because,” I said, “Cole is serious about everything except this.” 

Cole was smirking now. 

I looked between them. “Are you sure you’re not covering for him?” 

“No,” Faye said. “I’m serious.” 

I studied her expression. She wasn’t teasing. Not really. 

“…Interesting,” I muttered. 

Cole grinned triumphantly and grabbed his folder. “I’m going to give you two space before he starts interrogating me.” 

He headed for the door, clearly pleased with himself. 

As he passed Faye, he gave her an appreciative nod. “Thank you.” 

She waved him off. “Anytime.” 

The door closed behind him, leaving the office quiet again. 

I looked at Faye. “Anna.” 

She nodded. “Anna.” 

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<Chapter 283