His voice wasn’t harsh, it was deep and steady, almost commanding. I nodded weakly. My body was exhausted from the humiliation, from kneeling on salt, from all the tears that refused to stop falling.
I leaned against the seat and let my eyes close. The gentle hum of the engine became a lullaby, pulling me into a deep, dreamless sleep.
When I woke up, morning light was spilling through the car windows. The faint scent of fresh blossoms filled the air. My eyes widened when I saw the golden gates ahead, carved with symbols I knew by heart.
Moonveil Pack. My home.
The guards recognized the family crest on the car and immediately opened the gates. I felt a wave of emotion rush over me, relief, sorrow, fear. I was home, but not the same person who had left.
When the car stopped, I stepped out slowly. The moment my feet touched the ground, I was surrounded by familiar faces. Warriors, omegas, pack members, people I’d known since I was a child.
“Lady Brielle!” one of them cried.
And then, they all came rushing forward.
Tears filled my eyes as they hugged me, welcomed me back, and whispered blessings.
The stranger stepped aside quietly, his gaze scanning the perimeter as if guarding me even now.