Chapter 83. United Factions

ARDEN

Honey sat on the porch, her legs swinging back and forth as she hugged the stuffed wolf Cade had given her. Her big, round eyes followed me intently while I packed the last of my things. She didn’t say a word until I crouched down in front of her.

“You’re really leaving?” she asked, her voice small, carrying a hint of hope that we might stay another night. I, too, longed to spend more time with her. She was one of the most beautiful she-wolves I had ever encountered—both inside and out.

“I have to,” I said softly, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face. “But just for now.”

Honey nodded, then glanced toward Cade, who was loading the final bag into the car. “Take care,” she whispered.

I offered her a small smile. “I will.”

She tugged on the hem of my shirt. “And take care of Cade too.”

That made me chuckle a little, a short exhalation through my nose. “I will.”

“And come back. So we can play again.” She held out her pinky, jus