The Lunar Curse: A Second Chance With Alpha Draven

Draven.

The morning was still young, but it already felt heavy.

I sat behind my desk, sleeves rolled to the forearms, pen set down on the leather blotter, my thoughts caught between unfinished paperwork and the quiet burn in my chest that had stayed since dawn.

Then the landline rang.

Its shrillness cut through the stillness of my office, sharp as a blade.

I picked it up, pressing the receiver to my ear.

"Alpha Draven speaking."

"Alpha," came the voice, smooth but carrying that edge of careful diplomacy. "Good morning. It’s Mayor Brackham."

I leaned back slightly in my chair, fingers tapping once on the desk.

"Brackham," I returned. "Let’s hope you’re calling with good news."

A moment of silence answered me.