Hushed Willows tomorrow never comes until it's too late

Didn't notice her yet!

There was much that could be said in this situation—how he had been there, on the outskirts, trying to keep his family and pack safe.

But it was now clear it was not the safety they had wanted from him—and yet he could also not wish to backtrack and change any of it. How could he, when rogue bands attacked he and his Beta, witches hunted puppies and kingdoms enlisted pleasure slaves.

Always wishing to protect—and yet never managing to do it. Mae was scarred—physically, and emotionally. The boys were gone. Lilitu was now missing an eye and heavily scarred—Arielle, gone…

The hammering of his heart felt loud to him—he could only hope it was within his mind, as his eyes barely grazed Reverie, never wishing to be in such a vulnerable position with her above anyone else.

He just couldn’t trust her. It was sad to realize just how few he did trust… particularly within the passing months as true colors were revealed by so many… Maybe even himself. He felt his jaw tighten as his teeth clenched.

“If she needs some time to heal from your pack’s loss, I can extend a visitation to the creek for her… Her older sister just returned. Maybe an older sibling could help. But I won’t if you feel you need her here—for you and your young.”

He doubted Mae would go if she felt she was needed—but for some reason, he felt it important to let Reverie know he wouldn’t put the offer out there unless it was okay with her.

And he couldn’t quite pinpoint why.