The week leading up to the autumn moon festival passed in a blur of nervous energy. Aria had decided to participate in the moon run, though she still wasn't sure if she was ready for what it might mean.
"Stop overthinking it," Lyra said as she helped Aria pick out an outfit for the pre-run celebration. "The moon run is supposed to be fun. You shift, you run with the pack, you enjoy the freedom. If a mate bond forms, great. If not, also great. There's no pressure."
"Easy for you to say," Aria muttered, holding up a deep blue dress. "You're not the one who got publicly rejected by her first mate."
"True. But I am the one who's been watching you and Dante circle each other like lovesick teenagers for the past two months." Lyra grinned. "Seriously, the tension is so thick I could cut it wit
