88

PHIN

As we drove back home, the blur of the landscape passing by did little to distract me. My thoughts were on fire, burning through every anxiety and doubt I had about returning to the Bayou.

Becoming Alpha again wasn't just a title.

I was supposed to lead, guide, and protect these people, but I could barely keep my head above water.

Cassy sat in the passenger seat asleep. She was getting more tired by the day, and I'd noticed it even before this. Those babies were already demanding so much from her. She'd still managed with such grace. She always had this way of making everything seem manageable, like no matter how bad things got, she'd find a way to pull us through.

I envied that.

Vivi nestled against my side, tracing little circles on my arm. Her soft touch was usually a comfort. Today, though, it felt like a drop in the ocean. Teddy's hands were tight on the steering wheel, his eyes locked on the road. He was lost in his own world, just like I was in mine.

"You good, frère?" h