The cold air inside the cave felt different this time. Softer. Still sharp, but calmer. The darkness wrapped around us like a blanket instead of a threat. My wolf settled slowly under my ribs, watching Ronan with quiet eyes instead of fury.
Ronan stayed near the entrance at first, his breath still uneven from running through the woods. Snow clung to his hair and shoulders. His eyes were locked on me like he could not look anywhere else.
“Are you alright,” he asked softly.
“I do not know,” I said.
He gave a tired nod. “That is honest.”
I let out a slow breath. “I did not mean to run that fast.”
“I know.”
“I did not mean to scare you.”
“You did.”
The words were blunt, but his voice was gentle. It sank right into my chest.
“I am sorry,” I said.
Ronan blinked like he had not expecte
