The wind whispered through the pine forest, brushing fallen needles across the stone path like secrets being swept out of sight. The air smelled of approaching winter—sharp, clean, and restless, as if the world itself sensed a storm stirring beneath the calm.
Elaine stepped carefully along the moonlit trail just beyond the Crescent Moon Luna House, her phone pressed to her ear on speaker as she walked toward the veranda. She had intended to enjoy the quiet before chaos—final ceremony rehearsals, pack arrivals, preparations to officially step into her new role as Luna. A role she’d bled, fought, and healed for.
But peace rarely stayed long in her life. It always came with a price, or a warning.
Roselyn’s voice cut through the quiet like a blade.
“I met your parents today.”
Elaine froze
