"No, I haven't met with Alpha Sinclair yet," I admitted to the Matriarch, my voice barely above a whisper as I closed my office door. "Julian intercepted me this morning and threatened me if I went through with the meeting."
A sharp intake of breath came through the line. "Did he harm you?"
I thought of his hand at my throat. "Not physically, but he made his intentions clear."
"Listen carefully, Aurelia," Genevieve's voice hardened with authority. "This meeting is not merely a social call. Alpha Sinclair's alliance could be crucial for your protection. Julian's possessiveness without commitment puts you in danger."
"But—"
"No buts," she interrupted. "I've lived long enough to recognize when a situation is deteriorating. Meet with Alpha Sinclair as planned. I've arranged everything."
My hands trembled as I clutched the phone. "Julian will be furious."
"Let him be," she replied coldly. "Perhaps it's time my grandson remembers what real consequences feel like."
