Lila stood at the far end of the conference room. Her breath hitched, each inhale sharper than the last. Her heart raced a marathon against her ribcage, mirroring the crescendo of her anxiety. She fidgeted with the hem of her blouse, her fingers trembling slightly, a silent testament to the storm raging within her.
Her eyes roamed over the council members. In her arms, cradled gently, was Melody, her newborn pup and the future Alpha of the Moondance pack. The child, Lila’s unique hybrid, slept peacefully, oblivious to the turbulent world beyond.
Lila spoke. “I can’t believe some see our children as threats,” she said, glancing from Melody to Charles and Eliza. “We must protect them from the fear and prejudice that come with ignorance.” She shifted Melody in her arms, an unconscious gestu
