The following morning, dawn spilled through the guesthouse windows in soft streaks of gold, painting the room in warmth that almost—almost—felt like farewell. Elaine zipped up the last of their bags, her movements slow and deliberate, as though each item tucked away was a memory she was leaving behind.
Nathan bounced on the bed, excitement radiating from him like sunlight. His small wolf energy filled the room with life, his laughter echoing off the walls.
“Are you excited to go home, love?” Elaine asked, her voice gentle, her smile tender as she watched him struggle to fold his favorite shirt.
“Yes, Mommy!” he chirped, his eyes bright and wild with joy. “I want to see Grandpa and Grandma and tell them everything! About the airplane, and the wolves here, and—” He paused dramatically, lo
