Three months had passed since Mira left. Summer came to the plains with warm days and cool nights. The danger was over, but no one had forgotten what happened.
Aria's life had changed completely. She woke before dawn now to train with Marcus. He taught her to defend herself, to think like a warrior instead of a victim. Her body grew stronger. Her reflexes got faster. The first time she escaped one of his holds, Marcus grinned with pride.
After training came breakfast with Cassidy. Then Aria spent her mornings at the healing house. More people came now than ever before. Word had spread about the Little Luna who survived a predator's attack. Wolves traveled from distant packs seeking her healing gift.
Afternoons belonged to her friends. She, Liora, and Kaelan reclaimed their space at the creek. They swam and talked and laughed. Sometimes they just sat in comfortable silence. The shadow of Mira's presence faded a little more each day.
