Chapter 252

Chapter 252
Iris's POV

The silence on the other end of the phone felt heavy. I could almost picture Sebastien's expression shifting from shock to that calculating look he wore when strategizing. My heart was still racing from explaining the threat K had just revealed—Northern European wolves planning to attack my home in three days.

"I'll immediately dispatch Grey pack security to protect you and the children," Sebastien finally said, his voice firm and resolute.

I glanced at the family photo on my desk, the twins' smiling faces making my chest tighten with a fierce protectiveness I'd never felt before motherhood.

"I'm not sure that's the best solution," I said softly, tracing my finger along the edge of my desk. "If they really come, even with a dozen guards... think about what that could do to the kids psychologically. Emma's already sensitive to raised voices, and Nathan..." I couldn't finish the thought.

"Then we'll arrange for you and the children to relocate temporarily," Sebastien responded without hesitation. "Daniel can prepare everything immediately. A safe house, complete security detail—"

I stood and walked to the window, watching the city lights of Moonshade Bay begin to twinkle as dusk settled. The Northern European wolves wouldn't give up easily. This was about power, about the Alpha credential that had somehow fallen into my possession.

"But Sebastien, how long can we keep running?" My voice came out steadier than I felt. "As long as this Alpha credential remains with me, they'll keep searching. They'll find us eventually."

There was a pause, then Sebastien sighed. "Iris, what are you thinking? I can hear it in your voice—you already have another idea."

I did. It had been forming in my mind since K delivered the news, crystallizing with each passing minute.

"Instead of waiting for them to attack, we take the fight to them." I tapped my fingers against the glass, watching my own reflection. "According to K, their Beta can't ascend without this credential bracelet. That means they're vulnerable right now—there's a power vacuum."

"Take the fight to them?" Sebastien's voice rose an octave. "You mean go directly to Northern European territory? Iris, that's too dangerous!"

I understood his concern, but the tactical advantages were clear in my mind. "Think about it. Yes, they have home field advantage, but they're also at their weakest point politically. More importantly, I have the Alpha credential. On their territory, that might give me special influence or power."

Another silence. I could imagine him furrowing his brow, weighing options.

"You make some valid points," he conceded. "But if something goes wrong..."

"That's why we bring enough manpower. Your best warriors." My heart beat faster as I realized what I was proposing—a high-risk operation with potentially deadly consequences. "Trust me, I'm not being reckless. This is the most thorough way to solve the problem permanently, rather than living under constant threat."

The conversation shifted to our most pressing concern. "What about the children?" Sebastien asked, his voice softening.

This was the part that twisted my heart. I closed my eyes, trying to contain my emotions. "We could have Ethan and grandfather look after them. The Lowell compound has excellent security systems. With your people supplementing that, they should be safe."

Saying those words hurt—it would be the first time I'd be away from the twins for so long. But for their long-term safety, this sacrifice was necessary.

"I'll ensure maximum protection at the Lowell compound," Sebastien promised, seemingly sensing my reluctance. "And I'll have Grey pack's medical team on standby, just in case."

I nodded, forgetting he couldn't see me. "Thank you for understanding my decision. Honestly, I'm terrified of leaving them, but to end this threat once and for all... it's necessary."

"Iris, we'll be back with them soon," Sebastien's voice was firm yet gentle. "This is for their safer future."

We moved on to specifics. "When do we move?" Sebastien asked, tension evident in his tone.

I grabbed my calendar, making quick calculations. "If K's intelligence is accurate, they're planning to attack in three days. We should leave immediately and arrive tomorrow, taking the initiative."

"Agreed. I'll organize a small team of trusted wolves—all combat-trained." His voice had shifted to the cool, professional tone he used when managing crises.

"I'll bring K too," I added. "His knowledge of the Northern European pack could be invaluable. Also, we need to gather as much intelligence as possible about their territory."

"I'll have people start collecting immediately." There was a brief pause before his voice softened again. "Iris, are you absolutely sure about this?"

I took a deep breath, gripping the phone tighter. "Yes, I'm sure. Better to face this threat head-on than constantly be on the defensive. With you and me working together, and proper preparation, I believe we can succeed."

After ending the call, I pressed the intercom. "Send K in, please."

Moments later, K entered, his usually composed face still carrying that unusual tension I'd noticed earlier.

"Ma'am, you called for me?" He carefully closed the door behind him.

I gestured for him to sit. "K, I've discussed the situation with Sebastien. We've decided to take offensive action—going directly to Northern European territory."

K's eyebrows shot up, but he quickly regained composure. "That's a bold decision, but potentially the best one. Playing defense only keeps us under constant threat."

"I need your help," I said, looking directly into his eyes. "Your knowledge of the Northern European pack is essential. Will you accompany us?"

Without hesitation, K nodded. "Of course, ma'am. I'll be at your side. In fact, I've already begun gathering relevant intelligence and preparing necessary equipment."

His immediate agreement reassured me. "We need an elite team, not too large to maintain flexibility. Do you have recommendations?"

K thought for a moment. "Yes, I have several candidates in mind. All experienced fighters with high loyalty."

With our immediate plans set, I made one final call—to the Lowell household.

"Ethan," I said when the call connected, cutting straight to the point. "Sebastien and I need to handle an urgent matter and will be away for a few days. Would it be possible for you and grandfather to watch the children?"

Ethan immediately picked up on my tone. "What's happened? You sound tense."

I explained the situation briefly, deliberately downplaying the danger. "Some urgent business matters in Europe require our personal attention. Sebastien is arranging additional security for the Lowell house—just precautionary."

"Of course they can stay here," Ethan assured me, concern evident in his voice. "The children will be safe. You and Sebastien be careful."

After hanging up, I stood at the window watching the night sky, a complex mixture of emotions washing over me. As a mother, I hated anything that forced me away from my children; as a leader, I knew sometimes difficult decisions were necessary to protect everyone.

Taking a deep breath, I texted Sebastien: "Everything's arranged."

Tomorrow, we would face our enemies directly. Tonight, I would hold my children close and prepare for whatever might come.