The festival’s lanterns swayed gently in the evening breeze, casting pools of warm light over the wooden walkways and grassy expanses. Music drifted from the center, a low, pulsing rhythm that made the air vibrate with life. Pack members laughed, danced, and drank, their energy spilling into the night.
Ariana moved with Kael at her side, still tasting the echo of their near kiss beneath the moonlight. Every step felt tense, like a cord pulled tight across her chest. The world seemed brighter, yet somehow oppressive — the scent of pine and roasted meats mingling with the heat that radiated from Kael.
She barely noticed the movement until she felt a hand lightly touch hers.
“Miss Ariana.”
She looked up. Lucien stood there, composed, his silver-blue eyes catching the lantern light. His sm
