Cecilia Acre was the current public face of Bourgeois Jewelry Atelier, a recognized spokesperson with a strong following and a polished reputation. In pack terms, she carried the scent of a rising omega—valued, visible, carefully positioned by the hierarchy to maintain the pack's image to the outside world.
That morning, she arrived at the studio expecting routine preparation for the annual gathering.
Instead, her agent appeared abruptly, urgency in her posture. "Change the gown for tonight," she said.
Cecilia frowned slightly. "We already selected one. Why replace it now?"
Her agent lowered her voice. "The Alpha of the atelier—Young Master Elliot—will be attending tonight's gathering."
That name shifted the air instantly.
Elliot.
A dominant Alpha whose presence alone carried pressure through the room like invisible gravity.
Cecilia's eyes widened, excitement igniting in her expression. "He's coming? But I heard he wouldn't attend."
