The sun had barely climbed above the treetops when I made my way toward the Alpha's quarter again. My hands trembled around the small tray I carried roasted meat, spiced vegetables, and freshly baked bread the scent curling upward, mingling with the scent of my fear. I told myself I was fine, that this was just another morning duty, but deep down, I knew it wasn't.
Not after what happened yesterday. The compliment.
The whisper that wasn't meant for my ears.
Wildflower by the roadside…
I hadn't been able to sleep. The words kept echoing in my skull like a ghost that refused to leave. I told Joan and Elara about it, pretending it was funny, but they didn't laugh. They just stared at me as though I had said something impossible.
Now, every step closer to his door felt heavier, like the world itself wanted me to turn back. I knocked softly. "Alpha?"
