A moment passed, filled only by the faint crackle of the candle flame. Then Darius’s tone shifted slightly, more serious, more deliberate.
“Rowan has already processed the name change. From this moment forward, to everyone in the pack, you are Ashera.”
Hearing it aloud made it feel real. Her new name. Her true name. She inhaled slowly, letting the syllables settle in her chest.
“Thank you,” she whispered, fingers curling lightly around her wine glass. “I… I also think it’s time I see my adopted father. There’s so much I don’t understand. So many questions that only he might be able to answer. I used to avoid him, but now…” Her voice faltered slightly. “Now I need the truth.”
Darius didn’t look surprised. “I assumed you’d say that. I’ve already asked Rowan to arrange a meeting. I know y
