Ivy's POV
"Daddy... I don't want to leave you like this." I made one final plea, my voice barely above a whisper.
Dad's eyes softened as he gazed down at me. "I know, pup. But your mom needs you." Concern etched deep lines across his forehead. "She wouldn't have reached out unless it was crucial. In all these years of sharing custody, she's never acted this way. We've always respected each other's time with you."
"I know." Worry for my mother began to gnaw at me too, competing with my reluctance to abandon my father. "But leaving you to deal with this mess alone doesn't feel right."
"I'll manage just fine. I have Grant and the others." He took my hand, gently pulling me up the stairs of the pack house. "Your mother is on her own. I need you to be there for her, since I can't."
When I stumbled on the steps, Dad didn't hesitate. He scooped me up into his arms like I was still a little girl.
"Dad!" I protested weakly.
"Sorry, pup. I know you're exhausted. I am too."
