The clearing was alive with laughter and music, the smell of roasted meat and autumn leaves filling the air. Lanterns swayed from tree branches, casting golden light over the gathered wolves. Meghan, in her hybrid form — silver streaks along her arms, sharp ears flicking — stood beside Brett, watching the younger members of the pack chase each other through the crisp night air.
“This feels… normal,” Brett said, arms wrapped around her waist, fire glowing faintly along his fingertips. “I kind of like it.”
Meghan smiled, wolf instincts quietly humming beneath her human thoughts. “Normal can be nice,” she said. “Especially when everyone’s safe… and happy.”
Lila stood nervously at the center of the clearing, Tom beside her. Both were clearly trying to act casual, but the tension radiated li
