Hope
After the gathering, I slip past the remaining pack. Keith is gone. Jace is speaking low with Papa. I stand alone in the clearing.
I should feel peace. They did the right thing. But I’m restless, unsettled.
I close my eyes. I feel him—Keith—like a memory I can’t reach. His absence is heavier than his presence.
What did he want, really? Didn’t stick around. I never knew him to give up easily. Maybe he thought his part was done. Or maybe… maybe not.
A gust of warm wind moves the leaves.
With a steadying breath, I walk towards home.
“Hope,” Emma’s voice calls, and it anchors me in place.
I turn and see her eyes are fixed on me, bright and searching, as she closes the distance between us.
Her hand reaches, hesitates, then grips my arm. “There you are. I almost thought I had to go
