eper into Golden Crest Pack territory. The driver was silent, as was her father, who sat beside her, lost in his thoughts.

"Her father turned to her, his expression somber yet hopeful. "You're both strong-willed, but you're also cap

posing against the forest backdrop. Members of the pack milled about, pausing to watch the newcomer.Eric stood at the entrance, his expression unr

ic said, offering a polite nod to he

ortable.""It was fine," Ariel

shaking Eric's hand firmly

is eyes flickering with so

leaving her alone with Eric, Arielle felt a pang of

asked, refusing to

turing toward the house.They walked side by s

shed, a testament to the pack's strength and status. Eric led h

is voice echoing slightly in the vast spac

ed, crossing her arms. "This isn't e

"I know this situation isn't ideal, A

we do that?" she challen

Eric replied, his tone pragmatic.Ar

? Seri

e need boundaries if we're

' of yours?" Arielle asked, her

ent a united front to the pack. They need to see us as p

eyes but nodded. "F

ct the pack," Eric continued. "And we communicate. I do

ded approach. "Fair enough. But you should know, I'm not

a hint of amusement in his eyes. "In

ooking the forest-she found herself thinking about Eric's unexpected candor. Despite

om her thoughts. Jenna peeked in,

you here."Arielle rushed to he

n't know you

tion," Jenna said, smiling. "You

her tension easing slightly.

d, looking around the room. "No

, glancing around. "But i

'll make it yours,

r. "I'm trying, Jenna. It's just.

ri. You'll figure it out," Je

friend's support. "I hope so. Eri

" Jenna asked,

ought he'd be. He actually seems

"See? Maybe this won't

oed, though her hear

*

conversation flowed around her, filled with talk of pack matters and upcoming events. Arielle observed quietly, noting the re

rielle replied honestl

le touching his lips. "Hi

f a small smile in ret

Arielle, I know this is all new, but I want you to feel

icker of hope that perhaps this new life wouldn't be as daunting as she feared. While the path ahead remained unc