The house is too quiet now.
Even with Caden and Ryan nearby, it feels like the silence has teeth—gnawing at the edges of our minds, reminding us that we almost lost everything. I sit on the floor, curled against the bed, watching May’s still wolf form rise and fall with every weak breath.
Ryan hasn’t left her side. He won’t. He’s lying there now, his arms around her as if shielding her from anything else that dares try to take her.
Caden hasn’t spoken since we talked to mum.
He just… watches us. Me. May. Like if he looks away, it’ll all disappear again.
When I finally push myself to stand, my whole body trembles from exhaustion and trauma. “Caden,” I whisper, reaching for his hand.
He blinks at me slowly. His eyes are red, his jaw clenched so tightly it must hurt.
“You need to get c
