40

The hall was filled with a sense of unease, even as the pack celebrated Damien's triumph. While the majority of the members cheered and congratulated their alpha, I could see the unease in the eyes of some, the furtive glances exchanged between those who had once followed Ezekiel's lead.

Damien, his body still bearing the marks of the brutal battle, stood tall and resolute, his gaze sweeping over the crowd with a mixture of pride and caution. He knew, as I did, that this was only the beginning – that Ezekiel and his ilk would not take this defeat lightly.

As the festivities began to wind down, Damien caught my eye and jerked his head towards the door, silently beckoning me to follow. I glanced down at our son, who was already starting to fidget, and with a nod, I gently guided him towards the exit, staying close to Damien's side.

Once we were safely away from the prying eyes of the pack, Damien's expression darkened, the lines of exhaustion etching deeper into his features.

"We need t