Selena.
I woke up to the sweet, smoky aroma of roasted meat.
For a moment, I'm not sure if I'm still dreaming, you know that soft, foggy space where your body is awake but your mind hasn't caught up yet.
My stomach rumbled suddenly, making it clear I was awake and hungry.
When I opened my eyes, I realized I was alone.
Outside, I hear voices. Low and familiar. The crackle of fire. I sit up slowly, then push myself to my feet and step outside.
They are already there. My mates.
A small fire burns in the clearing, steady and controlled. Meat roasts over it on a simple spit. The smell makes my mouth water instantly.
Ronan stands by the fire, turning the meat with slow, careful movements. Kael crouches beside him, poking at the flames with a stick like a bored child. Edris sits on a log a few steps away, sharpening a blade, his posture alert even in stillness.
Something tightens in my chest when I see them.
It feels like home.
Not home.
