The morning light filtered through the cabin windows, casting golden patterns across the rumpled sheets. Elara woke slowly, her body heavy with the deep satisfaction of the night before. Kai’s side of the bed was empty but still warm he’d slipped out early, as he often did when pack business called.She stretched, wincing slightly at the pleasant ache between her thighs, the lingering stretch from his knot. Her hand drifted to her belly, fingers tracing the firm curve where their pup grew stronger every day. A soft kick answered her touch, and she smiled, whispering, “Good morning to you too.”By the time Kai returned, she was in the kitchen, wrapped in his flannel shirt, attempting to brew one of Liora’s herbal teas. The scent of chamomile and ginger filled the air.He paused in the doorway,
