Naomi’s pov :
I leaned against Elias, his arm wrapped around my waist, steadying me as the adrenaline crash hit. My legs felt like jelly, the pup's earlier frantic kicks now a gentle flutter, as if sensing the danger had passed. My cheek throbbed from Darius's slap, dried blood flaking from my lip, but Elias's Cedar scent enveloped me like a shield, grounding me through our bond. It hummed strong and steady now, a lifeline that had guided him to me across the miles.
Ronan approached through the milling enforcers, his silver eyes shadowed with exhaustion and relief. Lucy trailed him, her red curls matted with snow, clinging to his arm like she'd never let go. His alpha aura brushed mine gently, familial, protective, as he clapped Elias on the shoulder.
"Hey," he said, voice rough
