Nala Talking about the dynamics of our world was both troubling and enlightening. I could understand Xander’s point about the necessity of structure and rules to maintain order, but I couldn’t help wishing there was more that could be done for those who were unfairly affected by these laws. The thought that my own mother might have been one of those affected weighed heavily on my heart. I hoped, with all my being, that she was still alive somewhere. “Enough about that,” Xander said, breaking the heavy silence as he pulled me into his arms, his warmth immediately comforting me. “I think we should pick a date for the mating and claiming ceremony,” he continued, his tone shifting to something more hopeful. “I wanted us to do it in Raven Claw, where I’ve established my home, but we c