Chapter 86

The pack held my gaze, their expressions filled with a quiet determination that sent a surge of confidence through me. They were ready, or as ready as we could be. And in that moment, I knew that whatever came next, we would face it together.

As the pack began to disperse for the evening, I turned to find Dante watching me, his gaze filled with a rare, unguarded warmth.

“You’ve done more than prepare them for war, Elara,” he said softly.

“You’ve given them something to believe in.”

I looked at him, feeling the depth of his words settle within me.

“And you’ve helped me give them that strength. I won’t forget it.”

For a moment, we stood there in silence, the unspoken understanding passing between us—a shared purpose, a bond forged through struggle and a mutual desire to protect the pack we both loved.