Aaron
The paperwork should have taken another day.
Minimum.
That’s what protocol dictates. What precedent demands. What I’ve enforced often enough that no one questions it anymore.
I sign the final clearance anyway.
Administrative rotation waived.
Rest day approved.
It isn’t a favor.
It’s necessity.
Reza took a collision hard enough to rattle her system, followed by a night that left her emotionally exposed and physically unsteady. She needs a day without scrutiny, without obligation, without eyes on her measuring what she owes the pack.
She is my mate.
Destined to remain in this pack, whether she accepts that truth yet or not.
My wolf stirs, satisfied.
- You did right.
- Yes, I say internally. I know.
The confirmation pings through the system seconds later. The bond resp
