Ethan turned away, running a hand through his hair as he tried to process her words. The weight of the pack's survival, their fragile bond, and the looming threat of Liam all pressed down on him like a storm he couldn't escape.
"What does the ritual demand of us?" he finally asked, his voice low.
Avery hesitated, clutching the text tightly. "It's not just about reciting the words or standing in the circle," she began, her voice trembling slightly. "It's about us becoming one. Our bond has to be unbreakable, stronger than anything else. And..." She paused, swallowing hard.
"And what?" Ethan pressed, his gaze narrowing.
"It requires us to face our greatest fears," she admitted. "Together. To burn away everything that keeps us apart."
---
Ethan's breath hitched, the weight of her words settling heavily on his shoulders. "Our fears?" he echoed. "You mean..."
