Leo’s room was quiet, filled with the faint scent of mint and honey from the medicines. He lay curled under the covers, his breathing soft and even. The in-house doctor, a lean, aging man named Halren, greeted me with a bow and a quiet nod.
“He’s asleep,” Halren said. “Took his medication an hour ago.”
“Any changes?” I asked, glancing back at Raven, who stood near the doorway, arms crossed.
The doctor hesitated, his eyes flicking to her, then back to me. “Well?” I pressed.
Halren cleared his throat. “He’s stable. But… developmentally, he’s a bit behind.” My chest tightened. “Why?”
Halren looked uncomfortable. “Growing up without his birth mother… it’s taken a toll.
Emotionally. Spiritually, even. Wolves that young feel those bonds deeply.” A sharp, dry sound cut through
