Chapter 69

It’s like a large study from an old-world time, with substantial leather armchairs and a massive wall-hugging fireplace off to one side. There’s one large walnut desk with a heavy dark green padded chair behind it, facing out into the center. Matching dark green leather couches by two walls, bookcases lining another, and what looks like a minibar in the gap left by the door. There’s a thick animal hide rug under our feet. I think it might be a brown bear or some huge rough-haired animal, and absolutely no windows in here at all. “Every pack has a communal room for hanging out, bonding, and talking shop. Ours is the best because we’re lucky enough to have Juan Santo’s son as our Alpha. It’s a perk as we get favor.” I can’t tell if he’s serious or sarcastic, and I don’t pick up on any actual malice in his tone. It’s an odd thing to say if he isn’t trying to be an ass. He nods me towards a seat as he strolls to the fireplace, presses a button, and it explodes into instant flames. I though