**************
CHAPTER 86
~Koda's POV~
I swallowed hard, clearing my throat as I adjusted my stance. "Well, not quite, Alpha Slade. I had... something I needed to take care of here. Urgently."
Slade let out a low chuckle, the sound carrying a hint of disbelief. "Uh-huh. So, where exactly is here, if I may ask?"
I hesitated, fighting the urge to grip the back of my neck, but there was no point in lying. "Ivory Crescent Pack."
Silence.
Then, "Ivory Crescent? Koda, of all the territories... what the hell are you doing over there?" His voice had shifted, no longer amused.
I scrambled for an answer that would sound remotely acceptable. "It's… personal business. I swear, I'll be back soon."
Slade hummed. I knew he was considering what I said and I hoped he wasn't going to get finicky about it either and let me stay.