Sally's POV
The silence stretches around me like a suffocating blanket. Three pairs of eyes watch me expectantly, as if they anticipate some dramatic reaction. Maybe they think I'll break down screaming or bolt for the door. Instead, I remain frozen in place, fighting to control my ragged breathing.
The reality crashes over me in waves. This supernatural world exists, and my son belongs in it. Not trapped in some sterile classroom under harsh fluorescent lights, surrounded by ordinary children who could never understand what he truly is. Warren needs this wilderness, this pack, these people who share his nature.
Which means I have no choice but to remain here too.
"What comes next?" My voice emerges as barely a whisper, cracked and uncertain.
"We move forward slowly. Nothing rushed, no strange ceremonies or midnight howling sessions," Philip responds with gentle humor threading through his words.
Karl shoots him a sharp look. "You're making things worse."
