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The Lycan King POV

Socializing wasn’t my favorite part of these events, but it was necessary. I needed to keep up appearances, especially with the political tensions running so high lately. And with my brother’s unexpected return, those tensions were only increasing.

The evening was going smoothly until I noticed something peculiar. As I mingled, shaking hands and exchanging pleasantries, I realized that every conversation seemed to circle back to one topic: Kayla.

“She’s stunning,” one of the Alpha said, nodding toward where Kayla was seated.

“And who exactly is she?” another member asked, curiosity in his tone. “I’ve never seen you bring anyone before.”

“She’s certainly caught everyone’s eye,” another added with a knowing smile. “She doesn’t look like she belongs here.”

The comments, though subtle, carried an edge of suspicion. They weren’t used to seeing me with anyone. I’d kept my personal life private for so long that even a whisper of someone new sent ripples through the room. A