*River*
The sun peeks through the curtains, casting a warm glow across the room. I stretch and blink awake, the events of yesterday flooding back into my mind. Dust is still sleeping, curled up beside me, her peaceful face makes warmth bloom inside me. I feel a rush of gratitude as I watch her sleep; she’s my anchor, my source of strength.
I shake off the remnants of sleep, feeling the energy coursing through me. The poison that had threatened to take me down has faded, and I’m nearly fully healed. It’s time to show Dust my world, to introduce her to my pack and officially claim her as my mate.
I gently nudge her awake, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “Princess,” I whisper, a teasing smile on my lips, “it’s time to rise and shine.”
Her eyes flutter open, and a soft smile spr
