Book 3 -22-

[Homecoming]

ARIELLA

My mother ran to my side and nuzzled me as I stared at Jasper’s lifeless body in shock. I threw my arms around her as tears streamed down my face. “I’m so sorry I ran away,” I cried, tightening my hold on her.

“Did that bastard hurt you? Are you okay?” She soothed me as she rocked me back and forth.

“No,” I babbled, as more tears fell, blurring my eyes.

“You’re safe now,” she whispered, wiping away my tears. My mom kissed the top of my head, and pulled me even closer as I sobbed against her chest.

I cried out all my pain and sorrow, letting the tears wash away my fear and sadness. As the sun set over the horizon, casting a soft glow across her face, I took a deep breath to calm myself down.

Jasper’s death hung in the air, silencing the remaining Whitewater wolves, who surrendered.

I glanced up at my father. His eyes met mine and softened. “I love you, princess,” he told me before turning to give orders to his pack.

My mother and I walked away from that bl