92

*Eva's POV:*

The sun reflected off the tranquil waters of the lake, casting a golden glow that bathed the lakeside house in warm and welcoming light. Laughter filled the air, mingling with the sizzling of the grill and the delicious aroma of cooking food. It was a perfect day, a moment of celebration and peace, the kind of day that seemed to come straight out of a dream.

The threat of Riley had vanished, and with it, the shadows that had clouded our lives. I felt a deep sense of relief seeing everyone gathered, relaxed and happy, enjoying each other's company without the weight of secrets and fears.

Kessler stood by the grill, joking with Lucas as they tended to the meat. Lucas, with his girlfriend Lottie by his side, couldn't stop smiling. Lottie, a girl with a contagious laugh and vibrant energy, had integrated perfectly into our family and the pack. Seeing my brother so happy filled me with joy.

My father was conversing with Kessler's mother, Clara, a woman with a kind demeanor and