Lucia's heart pounded with a mix of excitement and relief as she walked home through the forest, the familiar path lined with tall trees and underbrush. The challenge against Miranda had been a turning point, not only for her but for her place within the pack. She had faced her fear and emerged victorious, proving her worth despite being human. The victory was sweeter than she had imagined, but another thought, a more intimate and confusing one, lingered in the back of her mind.
As she approached the cabin that had been her home since Agatha and Fenris adopted her, the door swung open before she could even reach the steps. Agatha and Fenris stood in the doorway, their faces glowing with pride and joy.
“Lucia!” Agatha called out, rushing forward to envelop her in a warm embrace. “We heard
