The fire in the hearth crackled softly, casting warm amber light across the room. Lila sat on the edge of her bed, knees pulled close to her chest, eyes fixed on the dancing flames. Mira leaned against the wall, arms crossed, her gaze flicking occasionally to the door, as if expecting the world outside it to erupt at any moment.
The twins had been given a room in the eastern wing of Hales Crest, modest but comfortable, with thick blankets and small personal touches that spoke of the pack’s efforts to make them feel welcome. It was a far cry from the cramped, cold shelters they had known while fleeing the rogue pack. And yet, the comfort did little to ease the tension that clung to their shoulders.
“Do you think they’ll… like us?” Lila asked quietly, her voice trembling just slightly. “Th
