The forest smelled of wet earth and pine as we drove back to the pack’s territory. The night had grown colder, but there was a strange quiet in the air, like the world itself was holding its breath. I sat next to Asher in the back, feeling the warmth and presence of him, steadying me after the tense hours at the council. Petra sat in the front next to Dennis, just as quiet as the rest of us.
The girls had chosen to leave for their own packs. They hugged me quickly before leaving, their hands lingering, eyes filled with gratitude and relief. “Thank you.” The lead girl whispered. “For everything. You saved us.”
I nodded, swallowing hard. “You were brave too. Don’t forget that.”
They disappeared into the dark forest, their figures blending with the shadows. I watched them go, feeling a mix
