By the time the celebration ended, the moon hung high above the Blackwood Forest.
The guests laughed as they returned to the Alpha’s estate, their voices fading into the distance. Servants hurried to clear the tables, sweep the garden paths, and collect the empty lanterns before dawn.
I was still working.
My injured hand throbbed every time I lifted another tray, but I ignored the pain.
Pain had become as familiar as my own shadow.
“Elara.”
I turned to find Willow walking toward me with two steaming cups.
“I stole us some tea.”
I smiled.
“You didn’t steal it.”
“I borrowed it permanently.”
A soft laugh escaped me.
“I think that’s still stealing.”
She grinned and handed me a cup.
For a few peaceful minutes, we sat on the edge of the stone fountain, enjoying the silence.
“You’v
