NARAH’S POV Alpha Van and I walked slowly back to the mansion, the crisp night air tinged with the scent of pine and damp earth. Each time his hand brushed against mine, my heart thumped loudly, sending soft smiles dancing on my lips, even as an awkward silence enveloped us. It felt heavy, laden with everything left unsaid, as if he hadn’t ventured into the woods to find me because he had feelings for me. As we entered the living room, the warmth of the fire from the fireplace crackled, contrasting with the chill outside. We spotted Bryan and Kacy; Bryan's eyes lit up at our arrival, but then quickly darkened with sadness and remorse. A storm of thoughts seemed to linger beneath his surface, leaving me wondering what was happening in his mind. I excused myself and climbed the stairs,

