Elena’s POV
The moment my boots touched the ground outside Frostpine Pack’s airport, the cold wrapped around me like an old memory. Sharp and familiar. I’d spent so long under Silver Crest Pack’s mild skies that I’d almost forgotten this was the land that shaped me.
“You’re freezing,” Eric said softly. Before I could protest, he slipped his scarf from his neck and settled it around mine, his movements unhurried and instinctive. “We’ll be in the car soon.”
I shook my head, managing a small smile. “People from Frostpine don’t complain about the cold. Our coming-of-age test is hunting in the snow with barely any protection. Come back empty-handed, and you’re not considered a warrior.”
His fingers lifted my chin, forcing me to meet his eyes. Steel-gray. Steady. “That life isn’t y
