With gratitude,
Kaylin
I swallow hard, staring at the sheet of paper until the prickling sensation in my eyes dissipates. I may be accepted here, but I’m not ready to let these people see me crying. Fuck, I don’t think I ever have.
I read the words again, then nod.
This. This is why I defected. Because people like Kaylin matter. Not as acceptable losses or logistical considerations, but as individuals worth protecting.
“I need to visit her,” I say, looking at Viktor. “As soon as she’s well enough.”
“She’d like that,” Ember says. “They all would. The people you rescued. They’ve been asking about you.”
I fold the letter and tuck it into my pocket. I’ll keep it. A reminder of why some things matter more than orders.
The others are talking amongst themselves, going over the details of the battle. I hear my name more than once, spoken with respect. With admiration. Not with fear, or suspicion. That’s behind me now.
I plan to keep it that way.
Merric speaks again. “Nadia.” He looks at her. “I want you to come home. Both of you.” He glances at me.
Home. Not visit. Home.
“You left after Chance died,” Merric continues. Voice gentle but firm. “You were hurting. Grieving. You felt like we didn’t do enough to avenge him. Maybe we didn’t. Maybe we failed you when you needed us most.” He pauses. “But we never stopped being your pack. You never stopped being ours. And now we’re asking you to come back. For good.”
The invitation is clear. Permanent. Return to the pack she left years ago.
I feel immediate resistance. Not to the offer. To making decisions about her life. These are her people. Her pack. Her family.
I turn slightly. Look at Nadia. Let her see the question.
What would make you happiest?
The mate bond hums between us. Not words. Connection. Understanding. The love growing alongside biological recognition.
She’s quiet for a moment. Then looks at Merric. “I miss my people. Miss the pack.” Her voice is gentle but firm. “And I know you never stopped being my family. Even when I left. Even when I was angry and hurting and pushing everyone away.”
“But?” Merric prompts.
“But right now there are more pressing issues here.” She glances at Viktor. At the others. “Aurora has an infiltrator. Someone dangerous enough to kill Samien and frame Jericho. Someone who’s still here. Still operating. Still a threat.” She straightens. “I can’t leave while that’s unresolved.”
The room goes quiet. The reality of it settling. A traitor in their midst. Someone they trust. Someone who could be anyone.
“We’ll find them,” Viktor says. Hard edge to his voice. “However long it takes.”
Merric nods slowly. “I understand. And I respect your decision.” He looks at me. Then back to Nadia. “But the offer stands. Always. When you’re ready. You’re pack. Both of you now.”
Both of you.Including me. The dragon. The former Syndicate operative.
“You fought like you had something to prove.” He levels a look at me.
“Maybe I did.” I smile at Nadia, whose expression softens.
“Wolves respect honor,” Merric continues. “Doesn’t matter what species you are. We fought side by side at that facility. I’d do it again.”
Direct acknowledgment. No hesitation.
“Thank you,” I say.
