The full moon hung heavy and silver over the estate grounds, casting everything in ethereal light.
Eve stood at the edge of the clearing where the pack had gathered, watching them prepare for Maya's bonding ceremony. Torches ringed the space, their flames dancing in the night breeze. The pack formed a loose circle, their energy crackling in the air, anticipation mixed with something primal and ancient.
At the center stood Maya, wearing a simple white dress that reached her knees, her dark hair loose around her shoulders. She looked nervous but determined, her chin lifted in that stubborn way Eve had seen a thousand times.
"You're sure about this?" Eve asked, moving to stand beside her best friend.
Maya turned, and her smile was radiant despite the nerves Eve could see in her eyes. "I've never been more sure of anything. I want this, Eve. I want to be pack. I want to belong here the way you do."
"You already belong...."
