And Zion? He was already isolated by the council. One more political misstep didn't matter to him, so long as it wasn't connected to Addison. Yes, it contradicted his long-term plan of growing strong enough to shield Addison if the Alpha King came for her, but right now?
Right now, Zion was still an Alpha. And no Alpha tolerated open defiance in their own territory, especially not a challenge to their authority.
But Claire was no fool—she was a master manipulator who knew exactly when to advance and when to retreat. Realizing she wouldn't win this confrontation, she gracefully stood up, masking her retreat behind a sweet, composed smile. She played the role of the magnanimous woman, never letting it show that she was backing down with her tail between her legs.
