WELCOME HOME

CHAPTER: WELCOME HOME

EVERLY:

As we stepped into Crescent Moon Pack’s territory, my jaw dropped agape. Kaelan's estate was a sight to behold and the sprawling forest seemed endless with beautiful villages nestled in the heart of the land.

There were homes woven seamlessly into nature, occupied by vibrant shifters, both young and old. The lush greenery of this pack seemed to take on a life of its own and the air buzzed with life, making me wish I was part of this world.

As we approached the central square, I felt a bit uncomfortable as Wolves of all ages stopped what they were doing and gazed at me with curiosity in their eyes. They welcomed their Alpha with honour and respect but I got nothing but scrutiny.

I tightened my grip on Kaelan’s arm as their scrutiny made my skin crawl.

“You’re safe here,” Kaelan said softly, as my body stiffened beside him.

“Safe isn’t the same as welcome,” I muttered, glancing at the wary faces around us. I clung to his side as we entered his estate.

The gates to his estate were massive, built with class in mind. The wrought iron had intricate designs of wolves and moons etched into the metal. Beyond the gates, there was a driveway that wound through a lush expanse of manicured lawns. There were trees too, towering trees, with branches that formed a natural canopy. The air smelled of pine and something else—something uniquely Kaelan.

Kaelan stopped and turned to face me, his dark eyes locking onto mine. “Give them time. They’ll accept you into the fold.”

“Are you sure?” I asked, my voice barely above a whisper.

His lips quivered into a faint smile. “Definitely. Within this brief moment we've been together, I can see in you the ability to stand firm, even when the world tries to break you.”

His words warmed me, but I didn’t have time to respond before a stern-looking woman approached us. Her sharp features softened as she bowed her head to Kaelan.

“Alpha,” she greeted, her gaze flicking to me with a mix of curiosity and suspicion.

“Lila,” Kaelan replied. “This is Everly. She's a new member of our pack.”

Lila’s brow arched, but she didn’t question him. “Nice to meet you, Everly,” she said with a smile that didn't reach her eyes. She turned to Kaelan. “I’ll prepare a room for her in the guest quarters.”

“No,” Kaelan said firmly. “She’ll stay in the main house.”

I blinked, startled by his declaration. “Alpha, that’s not necessary—”

“It is,” he interrupted, his tone leaving no room for argument.

Lila nodded, but she obviously wasn't pleased with Kaelan's statement. “Very well. I’ll see to it.”

As she walked away, I glanced at Kaelan. “I don't really mind staying in guest quarters”

“Well, I do,” he said simply. “You’re not just a guest. You’re important to me. Welcome home, Everly.”

His words sent a flutter through my chest, but I pushed it aside. “Thank you,” I murmured, unsure of what else to say.

KAELAN:

I watched Everly as she tried to navigate the pack like a deer stepping into a clearing. She was cautious, and wary, because of the way my packmates eyed her with curiosity. It was my responsibility to see that she settled well and fast too.

I introduced her to several of the pack members, starting with Duncan.

“Everly, this is Duncan, my Beta,” I said.

Duncan extended a hand to her with a warm smile. “Welcome to the Crescent Moon. If you need anything, just ask.”

“Thank you,” Everly said, her voice polite but guarded.

Duncan glanced at me, with a knowing smile. “She’ll be fine here, Alpha. You have nothing to worry about.”

Everly shot me a questioning look as Duncan walked away. “He seems... quite confident.”

I chuckled. “Duncan has a habit of being efficient in all he does.”

Her lips twitched, almost forming a smile, and it felt like she was getting a bit relaxed..

I took her straight to the pack's clinic where she was treated for her injuries. Normally, she was supposed to heal on her own but who knows, she probably didn't even have a wolf. I will find out about that later.

Later, after she had rested for a while, I took her to the training grounds. The moon glowed brightly and some shifters used the opportunity to train. The sight of wolves sparring and honing their skills seemed to spark something in her. She looked very enthusiastic as she watched two males engage in combat.

“Do you train?” I asked.

“I used to,” she admitted quietly. My question seemed to have opened an old wound as her mood changed immediately and her gaze became distant.

“Don’t worry, you will train again,” I said reassuringly. “If you’re willing.”

She looked at me, her eyes searching. “Maybe.”