Morning sunlight streamed gently through the tall glass windows of the council hall, spilling golden warmth across the polished floor. The air carried the faint scent of pine and parchment — a familiar comfort that had been missing since Rina’s death.
Matt and Jihoo exchanged quick glances as Alpha Theo walked in, his steps steady, his face calm. It was the first time in weeks he had looked composed, almost… peaceful. The deep circles under his eyes had faded, and there was even a faint softness to his expression.
“Morning, Alpha,” Jihoo greeted carefully.
Theo nodded, settling into his seat at the head of the long table. “Morning,” he replied, his voice firm but lighter than usual. “Let’s begin.”
They gave their routine security reports — updates on patrol routes, border activities, a
