Chapter 87. A New Beginning

Xander’s POV

The first rays of dawn stretched across the Crimson Pack’s territory, painting the horizon in soft golds and pinks. The forest, still hushed from the night, seemed to hold its breath, as if reluctant to let us leave. I stood on the balcony of the guest quarters, staring at the landscape that had become familiar over the past few weeks. It was beautiful, yes, but not home.

Behind me, Alison stirred, her soft movements like music to my ears. I turned, catching the sight of her wrapped in a blanket, her hair cascading down her back in loose waves. Her eyes, still heavy with sleep, met mine, and for a moment, the world stilled.

“Good morning,” she murmured, her voice husky from sleep.

“Good morning, my love,” I replied, crossing the room to her. I leaned down to press a kiss to her forehead, savoring the warmth of her skin against mine.

She smiled, but there was a hint of something in her expression, bittersweet, perhaps. Today was the d