Everything I’ve done since has been to ensure that history won’t repeat itself. Every male in Quarry Pack can fight. And every outcast from the five packs knows better than to try to find their fortune here.

It’s not been an easy path, but our females and pups are safe.

I lean against the doorframe. Nuria must know I’m here, but she doesn’t turn her head. She’s braided her hair again and changed into a flowing lavender dress. She’s beautiful and calm, but her eyes are distant. Sad.

Are our females and pups happy?

I’ve never wondered before. I assumed. No one’s getting beat. No one’s hungry.

If they weren’t...