Rachel’s eyelids fluttered open slowly.
The first thing she noticed was the strong smell of herbs and clean linen. The second was the soft bed beneath her and the gentle hands checking her pulse. She blinked, trying to focus. The room was bright but calm, with white walls and shelves filled with jars and medical tools. This was the pack clinic.
She tried to sit up, but a kind hand gently pressed her shoulder back down.
“Easy now, Luna,” an older woman’s voice said softly. It was Elara, the head healer. “You fainted in the garden. You’ve been unconscious for almost an hour. Just rest for a moment.”
Rachel’s hand instinctively moved to her stomach. The small curve was still there, hidden under the loose dress. Panic flashed through her.
“Is… is everything okay?” she asked, her voice wea
