Alpha Dominic led me through the pack grounds, introducing me to a few key members along the way. They greeted me politely, respectfully, without overstepping.
No one asked unnecessary questions. No one pried. It felt… safe.
“You’ll be staying here,” Dominic said, stopping in front of a modest but well-kept house.
I blinked.
“This is for me?”
“Yes.”
I turned to him. “This is too much—”
“It’s appropriate,” he interrupted calmly. “You’re under my protection.”
The words settled something inside me.
“Thank you,” I said again.
This time, he didn’t deflect it. He simply nodded.
“If you need anything,” he added, “someone will be assigned to assist you.”
“I understand.”
He hesitated for a brief moment before turning to leave.
But then he continued, “Stephanie.”
I looked at him. “Yes?”
His gaze lingered on me for a second longer than necessary. “Rest tonight.”
There was something in his tone. Something… reassuring.
“You’ve been through enough.”
My chest tightened slightly. “…I will.”
And then he was gone.
The house was quiet. I stepped inside slowly, my eyes scanning the space. It wasn’t grand. But it was warm. A place that felt… livable.
I set my bag down and exhaled softly, my shoulders finally relaxing.