I stood by the window, staring at the trees swaying outside. The sky was cloudy, but a little light still made its way through. I pressed my hand to my stomach, where a small life was growing.
A life that changed everything.
It was strange. Just days ago, I wanted to run. I wanted to forget Darius, forget the prophecy, forget all the pain. But now, things were different. I wasn't alone anymore.
I had someone inside me. A pup.
Our pup.
Even though I was still hurt, I couldn't let that pain decide my future. I had to think about what kind of world I wanted this child to grow up in. I had to think about whether hate or love would fill our home.
I sat on the edge of my bed and closed my eyes. My wolf stirred gently inside me, quiet but present. She wasn't angry anymore. She was watching. Waiting.
I took a deep breath.
Maybe it was time to stop hiding.
Maybe it was time to talk to Darius.
---
