I sat in the hospital ward beside Aria, my fingers gently brushing against hers as the rhythmic beeping of the machines filled the air. Her stillness was both comforting and agonizing. She was here, alive, but so far away. My thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the door opening.
Fergus stepped in, his expression calm but firm. "Everything is ready, Alpha," he said. "The ambulance is outside, and the security detail is prepared for the move."
I nodded, a small smile tugging at my lips as I looked back at Aria. "It's time to take you home, my little wolf," I whispered, leaning down to press a gentle kiss to her forehead.
As I stood, I motioned for the doctors to come in and carefully wheel her out. Watching them handle her with such care eased my heart slightly, though the ache of her condition never truly left.
---
At the Palace
