Page 132 of Cruel Devotion

My gaze met Monique's.

Those beautiful eyes were a blend of hope and determination.

“It's traditional for the Mountain Master to be the final vote, but I'll go first.” I stepped forward.

She pursed her lips.

We were so close.

I yearned to touch her, but I remained professional. “This was a ballsy move, yet here you are, standing your ground, unflinching in the face of dangerous men. Wolves, as you said.”

She bit her lip.

“I know I have gone too far with you in these past days, still you've safely navigated through shit that would have broken many.” I let out a long breath. “And this morning. . .even though someone has clearly given you unauthorized text. . .”

I slowly turned and glared at Duck.

He returned to fidgeting with his sword's handle.

“Still. . .” I looked back at Monique. “With that, you've shown strength, wisdom, and a level of understanding that goes beyond the ordinary. You've stood toe-to-toe with us, not as a subordinate, but as an equal.”

I paused, allowing my words to resonate through the space.

Duck, Hu, and Chen watched intently.

“You've earned not just my respect, but clearly the respect of my top officials, which is no easy feat.” I crossed my arms over my chest. “So, Monique, you have my full support and vote to become aFriend of the Four Aces.”

But Marcy and everyone else better fucking know their place. . .

She widened her eyes in shock. “Thank you. . .Lei.”

I backed up, hoping that I hadn't made the wrong decision. “Deputy Mountain Master?”

She still needed another vote. Chen and Duck typically voted together. Meanwhile, Hu was always a wild card and at times, reserved the right to not vote at all.

Chen stepped forward. “Good arguments, Monique.”

She swallowed. “Thank you.”

“Your request to be aFriend of the Four Acesisn't just about a title; it's a recognition of your place among us.” He began speaking with his hands, twirling and twisting his fingers with each point.

That definitely was not a good sign.

Chen flickered his index finger. “While you've proven that you are more than capable of handling the responsibilities and expectations that come with it, I'm not comfortable with your taking onthisposition. Therefore, you do not have my vote.”

What?

Sadness flickered in her eyes.

I took a deep breath wanting to slap him.

Pressure pressed against my chest.

Granted, I hadn't been happy about her wanting the position in the first place.

I also didn't want her to fail at this Council or feel embarrassed in front of my men.

Monique's voice was shaky. “I understand.”

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