The meeting continued as they discussed patrol schedules and defense strategies. Laura found herself suggesting tactics, drawing from her warrior training. To her surprise, Dante listened intently, implementing many of her ideas.
As the hours passed, pack members gradually filtered out until only Laura and Dante remained. Tension filled the room—not just from the danger they faced, but from the electricity that always sparked between them.
"You don't have to stay," Dante said, leaning over the map table. "This isn't your fight."
Laura moved to stand beside him, her shoulder brushing his. "Isn't it?"
Dante turned to face her, his golden eyes searching hers. "You've made it clear you don't belong to any pack. That you're your own wolf."
"That doesn't mean I don't care," Laura admitted.
