The fire crackled softly in the center of the Crescent Moon gathering circle, casting warm amber light across the trees. The entire pack had gathered under the full moon’s glow, filling the open glade with hushed reverence. The air buzzed with tension and awe—not from fear this time, but something older, deeper. Something sacred.
Nova stood barefoot in the middle of the circle, her arms wrapped protectively around River, who was nestled in soft linen against her chest. His tiny head, crowned with the faintest shimmer of downy hair, rested just over her heart.
Kade stood beside her, his hand resting gently on the small of her back. He hadn’t let go of her since the birth three days ago. Exhausted as he was, the glow in his eyes was unmistakable—part pride, part disbelief, and part a const
