Chapter 38: James

The last week has been a blur of meetings and heated discussions. Somehow, I’ve managed to arrange Jackson’s appointment as my Beta and get at least a hazy notion of my new responsibilities. I mean, I had some idea from my prior position, but it’s different when you’re the one in the hot seat.

There are so many moving parts to keep in sync, and I’m doing it all while trying to gain an audience with the council to plead Amalea’s case. I hate how long all this is taking, but I have to do this right if I’m going to pull it off. That means following all the proper protocols—including giving Marcus a proper funeral.

Admittedly, I find that more intimidating than the challenge fight was. I have to face Alicia. She may have rejected me and treated me like trash, but part of me still cares for her, and I killed her brother. I get the feeling she’s not going to be as friendly as she was at our last meeting.

If she convinces Anthony to challenge me, things could get rough. He’s not out of pract