Anna sighed, the sound weighted with sorrow. “Those boys have guarded you all their lives. I always thought… perhaps one day you’d choose one of them. It’s hard to imagine you belonging to another.”
A wistful smile touched Lenora’s lips. “It isn’t tragic, Anna. Fate never tied us together. They’ll understand in time.”
Another pause, softer this time. “At least promise me you’ll come see me before you go,” Anna whispered. “This feels so sudden. Who knows when we’ll meet again?”
“I promise,” Lenora replied warmly. “I’ve something set aside for you. I couldn’t leave without saying goodbye.”
They lingered for a few more words before ending the call, leaving Lenora in the hush of her room once again.
The stillness was brief. Alpha Nathan’s commanding voice reached her through the mind link: “Lenora, your service in intelligence has brought great value to the pack. As recognition, I’ve had a crystal plaque made for you. It’s already been delivered.”
The link snapped closed, and as if on cue, the doorbell chimed.
Lenora opened it to find Hailey standing there, a small box in her hands. Inside lay the plaque, its surface glinting faintly.