Surrogate For Alpha Dom

Ella

I’m dying.

The strength and determination it requires to stay serious in the face of Kieran’s announcement is staggering. I want nothing more than to roll on the floor laughing, but something tells me that doing so would undermine this victory.

I can feel Sinclair’s mirth through our bond, though he looks as cool and intimidating as ever. You brilliant, devious, glorious little minx! His voice sounds in my mind, full of all the laughter missing from his face.

I send him an elated giggle in return. The only thing better than getting to see how embarrassed he is by that delivery, is knowing that Damon is getting the blame. I share, my pulse racing with excitement. You notice Kieran didn’t tell him no? He asked about strategy and ‘didn’t commit’, but he never refused him… how much do you want to bet he was genuinely considering the option before getting so mercilessly insulted?

I know. Sinclair confirms, positively glowing with pride. I think your prank just stole a powerful ally right out from under Damon’s nose, trouble. I have no doubt Kieran was tempted and just needed to confirm it was a safe bet… but he’ll never work with Damon now.

an odd mood today. I reflect, wishing this

most difficult sell – if he’s on board it’s only a

to me, “Ella, your wisdom and grace – your compassion for all those affected by Damon’s violence and greed – is an inspiration. You are living evidence of the Goddess’s wishes for our future, but you are more than that too, because I’m certain that you would never join an unworthy cause. To oppose you would be to oppose justice, and I have no wish to betray my values

now to Sinclair. “Dominic, I have always admired your dedication to your people, as well as your unflagging principles. But meeting you, seeing your strength and feeling the magnitude of your power first hand, has been a humbling and heartening experience. I’m certain I have never, and will never, meet another wolf of your caliber – unless perhaps it is your son.” He allows with a genial smile, nodding to my round tummy. “You have never sought to pressure or manipulate us despite the urgency of your campaign, you have only worked to educate us about the threat Damon poses, and allowed us to bear witness to the events

heard over the last few days would have been more than enough to convince me to oppose the usurper.” His countenance hardens as he surveys the other pack leaders, many of whom are nodding in agreement. “Any wolf who would cause his people such torment is not fit to lead. Any Alpha who would risk the existence of all shifters by breaking the secrecy pact – who has overturned our way of life for

FrostFang Alpha is clearing gearing up for a big finish, his volume rising with his passion. “We saw Damon’s vision for the future today in revolting detail, and I for one have no intention of letting him spread that nightmare any farther than he’s already managed.

as the other Alphas stand one by one, each wolf declaring his commitment to defeating Damon. Soon Sinclair, Gabriel, Roger, Henry and I are the only ones seated, and I think we’re all a little surprised by the sudden wave of support. I suppose this has been building all along and it’s just been difficult to read because of their expert poker faces, but then again, maybe

was going to have to make a speech. You kind of stole my thunder, Ethan.” The group laughs heartily, and Sinclair gracefully rises, buttoning his suit jacket as he raises his glass. “I must admit I’m incredibly moved by your support. I’m infinitely grateful to have your allegiance, and I vow that I will do everything in my power to honor your sacrifices and live up to your expectations.” He squeezes my hand, and I can feel

and our people. I wish that wasn’t the case. I wish that Damon was not the monster he is, that he was not such a threat. I wish that he hadn’t cost us all the lives he’s stolen and destroyed.” Sinclair’s eyes are shining now, and I send him a flood of encouragement, needing to overwhelm his guilt with support. “But I could not wish for better allies than the wolves in this room, and I promise to never take you, or your people for granted. My hope is for our refugees to leave your shores one day soon, but I assure you that even after we are gone, we will never forget the kindness and support you have shown us. We will never be able to repay you for your generosity, and you will always have friends on

the world of Damon, and building the future the Goddess envisioned for us when she brought this wonderful