Chapter 66

Victoria Tiny cleared his throat, breaking the spell. "If I might suggest," his deep voice rumbled, "we prepare for both scenarios. A primary plan to extract both hostages, and a contingency if Aurora proves... uncooperative." Leo's eyes never left mine as he considered this. "You would risk the mission—risk your brother's life—for a woman who would gladly see you dead?" "I would risk it to remain the person my father raised me to be," I answered softly. "The person you believe I am." Something shifted in Leo's expression then, a softening around the edges of his determination. He didn't respond immediately, instead turning to Garrett who had been quietly observing from the corner. "Report on the Howlthorne fighters," Leo ordered. Garrett straightened. "Thirty-seven combat-ready wolves, Alpha. Morale is improving since Victoria's address yesterday. They're eager to retrieve their packmates and prove their loyalty to their rightful Alpha." "Their rightful Alpha," Leo repeated thoughtful