Chapter 5 Draven was practically glowing, as if he could already see the Alpha's access card hanging around his neck. Yeah-that didn't last. The guests had just settled in the main hall when Magnus descended from the dais, that obsidian staff of power in his hand. His silver hair gleamed under the lights. The old wolf was ancient-over a hundred years old-but he carried himself with the weight of a living legend. He reached out, taking my hand with a smile. "A big day," he boomed, scanning the room. "Lyris has come of age. And as I promised her father, she will choose one of my sons as her mate. Once she makes her choice, that man will be the next Alpha." Everyone had their theories on who would take over Grimwood Industries. Being Alpha wasn't just a title-it meant absolute control. Gasps rippled through the hall. All eyes turned to Draven, some glinting with envy. Yes, they all remembered how mad I'd been for him. "Now," Magnus said, patting my hand, "let the chosen one step forward. I will bear witness myself." Draven straightened, his chin high, already halfway to his victory-until Magnus raised a hand. Then Magnus turned, his gaze softening as it fell on the corner. Blaze. He'd changed into formal robes, his hair pulled back tight, every angle of his face sharp enough to cut. In his hands, he held a bouquet of Moonlight Wolfsbane, its petals glowing faintly. He walked over, steady as ever, and stopped in front of me. "Ready, Lyris?" his voice was low and sure.