Luna blinked in surprise, her eyes widening slightly. "I… I did?"
Ryker chuckled softly, his stern Alpha presence softening into something warm and fatherly. "Yes, my little moon," he said, his voice deep and fond. Before she could react, he leaned down and scooped her into his arms as easily as if she were still a pup.
Luna squeaked, half-laughing and half-blushing as her father pressed a proud kiss to her round, rosy cheek. "Daddy!" she protested, but her small hands still clung to his shoulders.
He only laughed again, the sound rich and full. "You made your daddy proud today. Speaking wisely before the whole pack isn't easy. You reminded everyone that strength isn't just about claws or dominance, but about caring for the land we live on."
Her cheeks turned pinker, and she lowered her gaze shyly. "I only said what Miss Alina taught us about plants and balance," she murmured.
