Gonzalo's POVThe next day arrived with a mix of trepidation and determination. As the sun's first rays broke over the horizon, I felt the weight of the plan I had devised for the safety of my pack. The competition at Alpha Michael's Pack was drawing near, and the days leading up to it were crucial.I had called Lucas to my office early in the morning to discuss the details of our plan. We needed to ensure that the pack's safety wasn't compromised during my supposed absence. I knew that the decision to act like I had left the pack but still remain close by was a risky one, but it was a risk I was willing to take."Lucas," I began, my voice low and serious, "today is the day we put our plan into action. We must make it convincing that I've left the pack. The key is to ensure no one s

 Ruby's POV I sighed and got up from my bed, feeling the tension and unease still hanging in the air. What was I even doing inside my room when everything was going on outside? I couldn't let my father's questions and Alpha Michael's presence keep me confined. It was time to face the situation head-on.I walked toward the door, my steps filled with purpose. I had removed my necklace due to my father's reaction, but I had every intention of asking Alpha Ralph to hand over the other half. Even though my feelings for him had shifted, I knew it was necessary to complete the pendant and maintain a connection with him.As I stepped into the hall, I could feel my father's eyes following me, his concern evident. I chose to ignore him for the moment and walked toward where Alpha Ralph stood by the window, gazing outside.When I reached him, he turned to me with a warm smile. He didn't look too surprised by my arrival. "I knew you'd come,

 Gonzalo's POV I turned to face the voice that had called my name and found Alpha Ralph already standing before me. The atmosphere between us was charged, and I extended my hand somewhat hesitantly. "Ralph."Ralph clasped my hand firmly, a sly grin playing on his lips. "Finally," he remarked with a hint of sarcasm.I maintained my composure, not allowing myself to be baited by Ralph's comments. I couldn't afford to get into a confrontation, not when I had other priorities. "Ralph."Alpha Ralph, seemingly unaffected by my calmness he continued, "I see you've chosen to make a grand entrance. All alone, Gonzalo? That's quite unusual for an alpha, isn't it?"My patience was wearing thin, but I kept my tone even. "I prefer a discrete approach. We're here for the competition, not show off"Ralph chuckled, his arrogance evident. "But you do understand, Gonzalo, that first impressions matter. You don't want everyone thinki

  Gonzalo POV.  He glanced around cautiously before responding, "It's been difficult, Gonzalo. Even though it's only been a day and a half, we've had to be on high alert. We wouldn't even have known you were coming back if we hadn't decided to patrol the area. There weren't enough guards on the ground, and if Drako had decided to attack, it would have been easy for him."I sighed, my concern deepening. "That's exactly why I came back, Lucas. I've brought in reinforcement to ensure that all our grounds are covered and that every area is securely protected."Lucas nodded in understanding, but the worry in his eyes was evident. "How long are they staying? Until the end of the competition?"I considered the question for a moment. "They'll stay as long as it takes. If I win, they can remain even beyond that. We can use all the help we can get."The mention of Drako and Teresa cast a shadow over our co

 Gonzalo's POV  After Alpha Michael left, I decided to change into more suitable attire for the evening's events. I made my way toward the main hall of Alpha Michael's pack territory, intent on finding Ruby. The guards stationed at the entrance recognized me and nodded, allowing me to enter without issue.As I walked through the main hall, I couldn't help but be captivated by the energy and anticipation in the air. Pack members were engaged in various activities, from discussing strategies to sharing stories and laughter. The atmosphere was charged with excitement, and it was clear that everyone was preparing for the upcoming competition.My goal, however, was to find Ruby. I knew that her father, Alpha Michael, had given instructions that she shouldn't see anyone, but I couldn't resist the urge to at least try.I walked further into the hall, determined to find her. But as I attempted to go deeper into the halls of