Theodore stood at the heart of the ceremonial hall, surrounded by cascades of crimson silk, the air thick with the cheers and congratulations of the pack's guests.
Sophia, adorned in a resplendent gown that shimmered like dawn's first light, leaned shyly against him, her fingers delicately clutching his sleeve as if staking her claim in silence.
Everywhere he looked, vibrant reds painted a scene of festive joy.
Yet, despite the smiling faces around him, Theodore felt a strange haze clouding his mind.
This was everything he'd ever wanted, wasn't it? He'd finally formed a sacred bond with the she-wolf he loved most.
So why did it feel like something was missing? Why wasn't his heart soaring like he'd imagined?
His gaze drifted, unbidden, toward the hall's entrance.
Empty. Not a trace
