The sunlight poured softly through the sheer curtains of our bedroom, casting gentle patterns across the bed. I sat alone, the blanket wrapped loosely around my legs, a steaming cup of tea resting on the nightstand beside me. Forest had already left—called away early for his Alpha duties—but I hadn’t slept well. My mind had been spinning since the dinner.
Despite his reassurances, something about Hattie’s return didn’t sit right with me.
She came back at the most convenient time, when Brooks was rebuilding everything and most vulnerable. The pack had been stabilizing, finding its rhythm again. And then she arrived—disheveled and glowing like some returning hero—and everyone acted like she’d never disappeared. No apology. No explanation. Just open arms.
I wasn’t buying it.
I sipped my t
