Chapter 388
51 – Elara
A simmering fury churned beneath my skin, fueled by the fact that I was being forced to command one of my own pack members as Alpha. I knew Ben sensed the tension radiating from me, yet he chose not to question it. That silent understanding only made the weight heavier. This was exactly what I had struggled against my entire life. Our pack was small—too small to justify compelling anyone to obey if you led with true respect. That was the lesson my mother had taught me, and she earned the admiration of every pack member because of it. My father’s leadership was marked by kindness and empathy. I should be able to emulate that. But clearly, somewhere along the way, we had missed the key lessons on how to lead with grace.
I wrapped up the formal introductions of Ben to the pack. Most of the members had already met him and the rest of the Silver Crescent team during their time here. They were skilled at mingling, quick to forge friendships. I couldn’t help but notice a few lingering glances from female pack members, their eyes drawn to him a little longer than polite. I had to admit to myself that Ben was undeniably handsome, even if his strict, rigid demeanor made him seem unapproachable. If he were just a human, he’d blend seamlessly with military officers—his hair always perfectly trimmed, his clothes impeccably clean, tailored to fit every curve. Ugh, no! I was angry at him. I couldn’t let myself dwell on how attractive he was, or how effortlessly he could smile, causing even the most committed females to giggle and blush. I hated that about him.
“Hey El. The coven’s arrived and they’re all set up. Brianna says they’re good for the night—no need to worry about dinner. Any other instructions?” Jax’s voice pulled me back from my spiraling thoughts.
“Thank f*ck!” I muttered under my breath.
“Really? That didn’t take too long,” Jax teased.
“Not you, Jax. It’s just… this day needs to end.” I sighed, trying to steady my voice. “Tell Brianna her coven can meet at the packhouse for breakfast. Melanie’s really excited to meet them—she’s hoping to learn some new kitchen tricks. Then we’ll plan where to start scanning and dismantling any harmful magic. We should post a patrol guard with them overnight, just in case they need anything.”
“Got it, Alpha.”
I turned and stepped out of the last shop, my body heavy with exhaustion and my mind aching from the relentless pressure. So many things were happening at once, and I felt like I wasn’t making a single difference. Darkness had fallen. I needed food and rest to prepare for whatever tomorrow might bring.

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