The grand dining hall felt smaller than usual, the long mahogany table held a large flickering candlelight admist a set dinner feast for the Alpha's family.
Blaize offered a warm smile as Zephyr entered as if they had not just drifted apart.
Good evening, she signed, her fingers moving gracefully through the quiet air.
Zephyr's response was efficient.
"Good evening." His voice was a low rumble when he spoke aloud a moment later, directed at the woman rising from her seat at the head of the table. "Good evening, Mother."
Vilka's face, brightened instantly. "Good evening, My Alpha," she greeted warmly, rounding the table to press a kiss to her son's cheek. It was their first meeting of the day, and she searched his face, as she always did, for signs of stress. "How are you?"
"I'm well," Zephyr replied, though he didn't need to ask her the same question. The light in her eyes, clearer and brighter than it had been in days, was answer enough.
