Alina chuckled at his persistence and nodded. "Of course, Boo."
"Yay!!" Boo cheered, his whole body shaking with happiness before he floated down and nestled his head on her lap beside Lucien. His cold cheek pressed against her, but his face glowed with bliss.
And so, in the quiet darkness, Alina sat beneath the trees with Lucien and Boo resting peacefully on her lap. Her heart was full. Though her body was tired, she stayed awake, keeping watch over her little students.
••••••
Meanwhile, Alpha Ryker's patience had snapped. His daughter had not returned yet, and every minute his wolf instincts screamed danger. Without waiting for further news, he stormed into the Nightshade Court's council chamber, his aura dark and oppressive.
"Where is my daughter?!" he demanded, his voice echoing through the chamber.
