Betrayal?

Magnus POV.

The meeting with the other alpha leaders dragged on longer than I had anticipated. Their voices blended into a monotonous hum as I struggled to stay focused.

My thoughts kept drifting to Ariel, my mate. I imagined her waiting for me, her warmth and presence a beacon pulling me through the exhaustion of the day.

The Christmas event had been a success, but it had drained me. All I wanted now was to be with her, to lose myself in the comfort only she could provide.

I shifted in my seat, suppressing a sigh as the discussion finally began to wind down. The other alphas exchanged final words, their faces lined with the same weariness I felt.

As soon as the meeting ended, I rose, nodding to a few before heading toward the door. My heart quickened at the thought of seeing Ariel. I was eager……