ALAN POV
The moment Elder Malcolm and Elder Beatrice stepped out of the cottage, closing the door behind them, my brothers and I were on Amber in an instant. She barely had a chance to move before we surrounded her, pulling her into the tightest hug imaginable. I buried my face in her hair, inhaling the sweet soft scent of vanilla that always grounded me. Aaron’s arms encased her from one side, and Alek pressed close from the other. We murmured reassurances—empty promises, maybe—but ones we needed her to hear.
“It’s going to be okay, Amber.”
“We’re here for you. Always.”
“You’re safe with us.”
I could feel her trembling, her small hands clutching at my shirt like she was trying to anchor herself. Her breathing was uneven, and the rapid beat of her heart echoed through our bond
