Hundred-nine

WINTER POV

A DAY AFTER THE BATTLE

Though we endured many casualties, victory was ours. Our pack was back under our control, and there were no impending threats.

No prisoners were taken from the Vordrak Lycans. Those who refused to yield were beheaded, and their remains left for the vultures to feast upon.

Most importantly, Slade had returned. However, he hadn't given me the full acknowledgment I sought.

At the moment, I was in the room, preparing for the meeting to announce Slade's return. While some felt it, others were still bewildered.

Slade had departed the room even before I woke. I wondered if he was intentionally avoiding me, for he wasn't acting like himself.

"Maybe you're attributing too much to it," Flora suggested.

"I doubt it," I murmured. "He's distant. I should be the one relishing his presence the most, but now he seems to prefer others' company over mine."

"I don't believe that's the case. He still feels the same way about you," Flora assured.

"How do you know that?" I