The younger Alpha rose—not from protocol alone but because it felt proper. Another quiet point in his favor.
Richard gestured. "Maya, this is Alpha Victor Ashbourne."
Victor inclined his head with modest courtesy. "It is a pleasure to finally meet you," he said—voice steady and even, the same composed tone that had threaded through the afternoon.
Maya studied him for a breath, then dipped her chin in acknowledgement. "And you," she replied.
Thomas looked mildly disappointed at the lack of drama. The elder noticed. "What's wrong with him?"
Victor didn't flinch. "He's waiting for something dramatic," he observed.
"I was," Thomas admitted, perfectly shameless.
Laughter threaded through the room—easy, genuine. Even Maya felt the corner of her mouth lift. Richard watched her quietly and felt something small and private shift: for the first time since Ethan, he'd seen his daughter smile without it being an effort. That small, true curve made the meeting worthwhile in his eyes.
