Francis's house felt quieter than usual, though the air itself was strangely heavy, as if the pack instinct recognized an approaching dominance shifting through the territory. Elliot's arrival tonight had already altered the emotional current of the estate, subtle but unavoidable, like an Alpha crossing into another Alpha's controlled ground. In a world where strength carried invisible pressure, even preparation became part of the hierarchy.
Naomi had already informed Erica earlier, and the moment Erica answered the call, excitement surged through her like an unstable pulse in the bond. "Mom, is it true? Is Elliot really coming to our den tonight?" she asked, her voice tight with disbelief and anticipation.
"That's what your father said," Naomi replied, though even her composed tone carried restrained excitement.
