"Even if we manage to pull him into our side, what real advantage does that truly give us within the pack hierarchy?" Erica's voice carried impatience, her instincts still too young to understand the deeper currents of influence that moved through alliances, bloodlines, and corporate pack power.
Her mother's reply was colder, sharper—an elder's tone, shaped by years of navigating Alpha politics. "Having Alex aligned with us is always better than letting him remain tied to Anastasia's side. He's already on his way to you tonight. This is your chance. Draw him in. If he bonds even slightly with our faction, he becomes leverage over your father's company shares."
Erica hesitated, teeth pressing into her lip as reluctant instinct wrestled with ambition. She didn't fully like manipulation, but she understood survival in their world often came down to strategy, not sincerity. "Fine… I'll do it."
The call ended, leaving her alone with a tightening pressure in her chest.
