The memories rush back harder, nearly overwhelming her.

She plasters a smile on her face and takes her hug.

"Thank you, Luna," she says respectfully.

"None of that, Scarlett. I've known you since you were a cub, and no matter what, I'll always think of you as a daughter."

Her words tug at her heartstrings.

"Come, greet Alpha, and then I'll take you over to Rowa," she says matter-of-factly.

Scarlett nods and leads the way as she brings her into the sitting room where Alpha Sage is seated in a faded old armchair.

### His eyes soften when he sees her, but there's unmistakable sadness too. He stands as she...