The Hales Crest packhouse was quieter now that the morning bustle had faded, replaced by the soft murmur of hushed conversations and the occasional clink of utensils from the kitchen. Fires burned steadily in the hearths, their warmth spreading through the main hall and softening the edges of the frost-covered windows. Outside, the world was still heavy with winter, snow blanketing the forest in a silent, unbroken white.
Rowan stood near the hearth, hands clasped behind his back, watching Dustin and Serena arrange the seating for the pack briefing. Holly sat nearby, still wrapped in the oversized quilt from her room, fingers tracing the embroidery almost absently. Lila and Mira hovered near the back, quiet but alert, eyes darting around the room as though every shadow could hide danger. R
