BURDEN

Damien stood by the window in his office, staring out at the dense forest that bordered his pack’s territory. The tall trees, their leaves shifting in the wind, seemed to whisper secrets, the kind that only nature could carry. But despite the peaceful view, his mind was anything but calm. The weight of responsibility pressed heavily on his shoulders, each decision carrying more gravity than the last.

The Council of Alphas had called for a meeting, an urgent one, and attendance was expected. It was tradition for the pack Alphas to gather in times of crisis, to share information, strategies, and maintain order across the clans. But this time was different. Damien didn’t want to leave.

His mate, Elena, was in the final stages of her pregnancy. She was his world, his heart, and with everything that had been happening rumors about her lineage, whispers of betrayal, the looming threat of Alpha Carl, he felt an overwhelming need to protect her, to never leave her side. The danger felt closer