Lucas POV
Vanessa stood at the end of the long table in the room, leaning over what appeared to be architectural plans with Abel, my Beta. Her dark hair was pulled back in a severe ponytail. She had a serious expression on her face as she pointed to something on the document.
"These reinforcements need to be completed before the full moon," she was saying. "The eastern perimeter has been vulnerable for too long."
Abel nodded, making notes. "I'll double the construction crew tomorrow. With the recent attacks on neighboring packs, we can't afford any weak points."
Neither had noticed my presence yet, too absorbed in their discussion. I took a moment to appreciate the scene—my mate, my Luna stepping seamlessly into a leadership role in my absence; my Beta, loyal as ever, supporting her decisions. The pack had continued functioning, as it should.
"I hope you've left some decisions for me, Abel," I said, breaking the silence.
