CHAPTER SEVENTY NINE - The Gravity Of Unsaid Words

Lucas rolled with the impact, using the momentum to create distance between them. His golden eyes flicked momentarily to Aria, who subtly gestured toward Victor's chest. Understanding dawned in his expression. He used the brief respite to assess the situation. Victor was stronger and faster than he should be, the moonstone providing unnatural advantages. Each time the older Alpha touched the amulet, a subtle ripple of energy passed through the room—something Lucas wouldn't have noticed if not for his heightened Alpha senses. "The only generous thing you've ever done," Lucas said, circling again, "is provide an example of how not to lead." Victor snarled, his control slipping. "I've built a territory from nothing! Created alliances that Silver Moon never could!" "Through fear and coercion," Lucas countered. "Those aren't alliances—they're hostage situations." The verbal exchange gave Lucas precious seconds to recenter himself, to push back the pain and focus on strategy rather than