The tension between Merrick and Angus was apparent. The older Alpha surprisingly backed away first and held his hands up in surrender. "Awww, come now, my friend. We meant no harm." He grinned at Merrick with no hint of animosity.
"We are only here to extend friendship to you and welcome these two as the newest members of our pack council."
Merrick stayed stiff, and his demeanour did not change, even with the Alpha's words of reassurance that he meant no harm.
Merrick drew his brows together, creating deep lines on his forehead, as he scowled at Angus. No one spoke, and the room was filled with a heavy silence, broken only by the sound of Merrick's pacing footsteps along the length of the table.
His eyes darted from one man to another, carefully studying their faces with a blend of control and authority.
