Chapter 49

Selena's POV

I cowered back as Hazel stood over me, his imposing figure made even worse by the expression on his face. It was one of absolute anger, rage, and despise. The air in the room grew thick with tension, and I could practically feel the storm brewing within him.

"What did you just say?" he growled again, his voice a menacing low rumble.

My mind raced, searching for a way to diffuse the impending explosion. I stammered, "I-I just meant, my lord, that they missed your presence at the Silver Hands meetings, and I thought you might want to attend the upcoming one."

He sneered, a bitter laugh escaping his lips. "Is that what you thought? You think I care about those meaningless meetings? Or do you think I've forgotten the manipulative games the Silver Hands play?"

I swallowed hard, fear tightening its grip on me. "No, my lord. I simply thought it might be in the pack's best interest—"

"Best interest?" he interrupted with a harsh laugh. "You dare speak of the pack's best interest a