IRENE'S POV Carter and Emma had just finished teasing me about Leon’s invitation when there was a sudden, urgent knock on the door. The three of us exchanged puzzled looks before I got up to answer it. Standing in the doorway was Matthew’s Beta, his face tense with worry. “Irene, you need to come with me. The Alpha demands your presence immediately.” I raised an eyebrow, my heart pounding in my chest. “Why would I do that? I’m not part of his pack anymore.” The Beta’s eyes pleaded with me. “Please, Irene. I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t serious. You need to come with me now, or it could go very badly for everyone involved.” Carter stepped forward, his stance protective. “She doesn’t have to go anywhere with you. Matthew has no right to demand anything from her.” The Beta looked more