The helicopter cut through the sky like a fresh wound. The buzzing made my heart beat with excitement every kilometer. I was returning to the place where it all began. Where I left a version of myself that no longer existed.
Lucian was beside me, silent. His hand rested on mine with deceptive calmness. Anyone looking would think we were a destined couple, at peace, an Alpha and his Luna traveling like a happy pair. But inside me there was no peace. Only a constant echo of doubts and irregular heartbeats. I could still feel the warm ring on my finger, it didn't burn, no longer hurt me, but I knew it could at any moment if Lucian so decided.
The landscape below us became familiar: tall pine trees, the river crossing like a silver scar, hidden paths between the trees. My father's territory. My pack.
I glanced sideways at Lucian. His profile was marble and shadow. The Dark Alpha who had invaded every corner of my soul, and yet... I had accepted him as my mate.
