Chapter 15: The Language of Trust

The "probationary period" began not with grand gestures, but with a quiet, awkward shift in reality. I was given a seat at the table during pack meetings—not at the head beside Kaine, but among the senior members. My opinion wasn't sought, but neither was it dismissed. I was an observer, a silent partner in the rebuilding of the pack I had helped save. Kaine was… different. The arrogant Alpha who barked orders was gone, replaced by a leader who listened. He consulted his Betas, he sought...