Later in the afternoon, Emilia wandered to the library, hoping for some quiet to clear her mind. She paused as she entered, spotting a familiar figure seated in an oversized chair by the window. Freya looked up, and her posture seemed to shrink further. She gave Emilia a quick, unsure smile.

“Freya,” Emilia called, stepping further into the room. “I didn’t expect to see you here.”

Freya hesitated, then nodded. “I thought I’d… take a moment to myself,” she said quietly, glancing around as if to make sure they were alone. "And Alpha Raymond asked me to wait here for him."

Emilia was surprised that she didn't feel the usual...