EARLIER THAT DAY
The afternoon sunlight slanted across the floor of the office of Cael, gleaming off polished mahogany and burnished steel. Cael sat in front of a wide monitor, having a business video call. Arms folded, expression shuttered as he looked at the pretencious face of Alpha Reid of the Rock ridge pack—broad-shouldered and slick with faux charm— on the screen.
"Look, Cael," Reid said, reclining in his chair like this was a social call.
"You and I both know the white moonstone's value has tripled this season. Me adding an extra seventy-five grand for the secure shipping and protection of your goods isn't unreasonable. Especially with your kind of pockets, its not like it will make a dent in your packs accounts."
Cael's jaw ticked in annoyance. "Silver Claw's wealth isn't your business, Reid. Our fathers did business together for years. That's the only reason I haven't taken my business elsewhere already. Do not make me regret my decision."
