Ayla's POV
The last two hours of driving felt like the longest of my life. Every mile brought us closer to home, closer to introducing Arkon to my family properly, closer to whatever came next.
Through the bond, I felt his nervousness growing. He was about to meet my parents as my mate. About to face judgment from people who had known me since I was a child.
"Almost there," Sienna said. "Your text said turn left at the big oak tree, right?"
I nodded. Sienna was never good with roads, while we were leaving yesterday, she kept asking for directions too.
As we turned down the long driveway, for reasons unknown to me, memories flooded back. Learning to shift in the backyard. Playing in the woods. Sitting on the porch with Mom, learning sign language after my voice disappeared.
My Dad's t
