The moonrise passed much like every other.
Bryan insisted on showing Brandon the finished bridge they had built together, while Charlotte proudly declared herself the official judge of its strength. When the little wooden bridge survived the weight of three toy wolves, she clapped enthusiastically.
"It's strong!"
Bryan grinned. "I told you Father fixed it properly."
Brandon laughed. "I only helped."
"You always say that," Bryan replied.
"Because it's true."
Emma stood on the veranda, watching them with a quiet smile. A week ago, her attention would have stayed on the pups. Now, she found herself watching Brandon too, lingering on him as he laughed and played with them.
She watched the way he celebrated Bryan's success as though it were his own. When Charlotte spoke, he lowered himself to her height and listened until she finished,
Shortly before noon, he prepared to leave for a meeting at Nightclaw Estate.
