She chuckled softly, the sound quiet but warm. Yes, teamwork indeed. We work really well together. You’re such a delight.

Memories of their shared moments flickered behind her eyes—gentle, cherished, even through the pain they'd weathered.

But then Stardust’s words struck a deeper chord. Kirain’s posture shrank inward, her ears lowering as doubt gripped her.

I… but what if I’m not worthy? she whispered. Lestan… he’s amazing. So gentle, so charming. And I’m just… Her voice faltered, barely audible. A sad excuse for a wolf.

She couldn’t meet Stardust’s gaze. I wouldn’t fight him if he found someone else. I’d let him go. Let him be happy. That’s the least I can do.

The weight of it all pressed hard on her chest, thoughts and feelings she kept buried deep. Her bright persona, always so full of light, was cracking at the edges. The shadows she worked so hard to ignore were clawing their way up, whispering things she didn’t want to believe.

And then, that terrifying thought: I don’t want to be here. Her breath hitched. Shoulders stiffened. Panic surged through her, sharp and suffocating.

Desperately, she reached for something, anything, to pull herself out.

I-I’m sure you will! she blurted, voice shaky. Um, our den? It’s… uh, this way.

Keeping her silver gaze fixed ahead, she rose to her feet and led Stardust through the trees.

Their den lay beneath a large, sheltering tree—a tranquil, open space where a small stream whispered along the edge. Sunlight filtered softly through the leaves, casting dappled light over the earth. It was peaceful. A quiet kind of beautiful.

Please, feel free to pick a spot anywhere you like, she said gently, trying to steady her voice. I’d be happy to help you get settled. Just let me know, okay?