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248. Holding My Ground...

Author: sammie
last update Last Updated: 2025-04-27 23:45:31

~Ruby’s POV~

The day started early—earlier than I wanted. Roman was gone, and with him away, the weight of leadership fell onto my shoulders like an invisible but heavy cloak.

I wasn’t just covering for him. I was him, for now.

Council meetings, strategy sessions, training schedules, even minor grievances between packs. All of it ran through me.

And it was clear from the start... not everyone was thrilled about that.

When I entered the conference room, it was lively and full of energy. The long oak table was surrounded by leaders from nearby packs, each one radiating confidence and eager anticipation.

Their eyes snapped to me the moment Tobias and I entered. I felt the shift—the immediate adjustment of their posture, the small flickers of judgment flashing across their faces.

“She’s alone?” I heard someone murmur under his breath.

I ignored it. I had bigger things to deal with than wounded male egos.

I pulled out Roman’s chair at the head of the table and sat down, straightening the p
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