The sky was gray, showing the unease in Aveline's heart as she and Gabriel approached her original pack's territory. Tensions filled the air like static, the invisible wall of mistrust between them and the pack looked larger with every step they took. Gabriel's hold on her hand was firm, arranging her composure despite the unease growing in her chest. Their child, relaxing safely in the arms of a trusted rogue friend, remained hidden on the border for their protection.
The sight of familiar faces didn't reduce the tension among them. Eyes that once held warmth now filled with suspicion, hardened by years of information against Gabriel's rival pack. The noise of their arrival began before they even crossed the border.
"She's brought him here?"
"Why would she trust a traitor?"
"Do they really expect us to forget what he's done?"
