Page 21 of Alpha's Hidden Gem

"Good," I say, then turn to address the wider group. "Now, we need to discuss our defensive strategy. These rogues are bold, entering our territory so brazenly. We need to be prepared for a potential attack on our home ground."

Marcus, our pack's tactical expert, speaks up. "We should set up a series of safe houses throughout our territory. Places where pack members can seek refuge if they're caught out alone."

"Excellent idea, Marcus," I agree. It's moments like these that remind me why I love my pack. They're smart, resourceful. "Work with Beta Ethan to identify suitable locations. I want them stocked with supplies and communication devices within the next 48 hours."

I take a deep breath, softening my tone.

"I know many of you haven't faced a threat like this before," I say, looking around the room. "But remember, you are not alone. We are a pack, and we are stronger together. Your training has prepared you for this. Trust in yourselves and in each other."

Just when I think we're making progress, Finn raises his hand to speak.

"Axel, now that we have a solution for the rogue problem, we must discuss your relationship with Lila, the human woman. What if she discovers our secret? What if she leads hunters straight to our doorstep?" his voice tight.

Oh boy, here we go. I can feel the tension in the room ratchet up a notch. The murmurs of agreement ripple through the crowd like a wave, and I hold up my hand to silence them. It's like trying to calm a bunch of excited puppies, I swear.

"I understand your concerns, Finn," I say, trying to keep my voice steady. "And I assure you that I am taking every precaution to protect our pack. Lila is not a threat to us."

Ethan leans forward, his brows furrowed. I can see the worry in his eyes. "But how can you be sure, Axel? We've seen the way you look at her. Your feelings could cloud your judgment."

I meet Ethan's gaze steadily, even as a part of me acknowledges the truth in his words. My attraction to Lila is undeniable, a pull that seems to defy all reason. But I cannot let my personal desires come before the safety of my pack.

"I give you my word, as your Alpha, that I will not allow any harm to come to our pack," I say, my voice firm. "We must remain discreet and united, now more than ever. Trust in me, as you always have."

As I look around the room, I can see the worry etched on their faces, the unease that lingers in the air. It's like trying to read a book with half the pages missing – I know there's more going on beneath the surface.

And then, just when I think things can't get any more tense, Finn rises to his feet, his eyes flashing with a challenge. "Maybe it's time for a new Alpha to lead this pack, one who isn't distracted by a human woman."

Well, shit.Talk about throwing gasoline on a fire.

I feel a surge of anger rush through me, hot and fierce. My wolf rises within, snarling at the threat to my position. I can feel my muscles tensing, my hands curling into fists as I fight to maintain control. The tension in the room skyrockets as the other pack members sense the impending confrontation. It's like being in the eye of a storm.

"What did you say?" I growl, my voice low and dangerous. I can feel my wolf clawing at the surface, demanding to be released.

Finn takes a step forward, his posture defiant. "You heard me, Axel. Your judgment is clouded. We need a leader who puts the pack first, above all else."

Around us, the other pack members erupt into a cacophony of arguments. Some voice their support for Finn, echoing his concerns about my involvement with Lila. Others defend me, reminding everyone of my proven leadership and the battles we've won together. It's like being in the middle of a verbal tug-of-war, and I'm the rope.

It takes every ounce of my self-control to keep the shift at bay. I can't let my anger get the best of me, not now. Being an Alpha isn't just about being the strongest – it's about being the most controlled, even when everything inside you is screaming to let loose.

"Enough!" I roar, my Alpha voice cutting through the chaos like a knife.

The room falls silent, all eyes turning to me. I can feel the power of my position, the weight of my authority pressing down on them. It's a heavy burden, but one I've chosen to bear.

"I am your Alpha," I declare, my voice ringing with unwavering conviction. "I have led this pack through countless challenges, and I will continue to do so until the day comes that someone defeats me in battle. My personal life is none of your concern, Finn. I have given my word to protect this pack, and I will not break that promise."

I stare down Finn, my Alpha authority radiating through the room. For a tense moment, it seems like he might actually challenge me, his eyes flickering with defiance. But then he lowers his gaze, submitting to my dominance.

"I apologize, Alpha," Finn says, his voice strained. "I spoke out of turn."

The tension in the room eases slightly, but I can still sense the underlying current of unease. I take a deep breath, letting my anger dissipate.

"I understand your concerns," I say, my voice steady. "But I need you to trust me. I would never do anything to jeopardize the safety of our pack."

Elena steps forward, her expression softening. "We do trust you, Axel. We're just worried. These are uncertain times and the last thing we need is hunters down our backs."

I nod, feeling a rush of gratitude for her support. It's moments like these that remind me why I love my pack. "I know. And I appreciate your loyalty. We will get through this together, as a pack."

Around the room, I see heads nodding, a sense of unity slowly replacing the earlier discord. Ethan claps me on the shoulder, a gesture of solidarity.

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