MAYA
"I can't believe I'm back here," I murmured as we crossed the long bridge that marked the border between the human world and Ashbourne Pack territory. The familiar pine trees rose on either side, unchanged after all these years. "Everything looks… the same."
Finn reached over from the driver's seat, squeezing my hand gently. "Welcome home, Maya."
We drove in silence for a while. I stared out the window, trying to focus on the passing scenery instead of the sadness creeping into my chest. This time, Dad wouldn't be here, and the thought hit harder than I expected.
"We're here," Finn said softly, pulling me from my thoughts.
I looked up. The packhouse loomed ahead. Outside stood Beta Alaric, flanked by several pack guards.
I checked my reflection in the side mirror one last time,
