Chapter 37

Ava POV

As I stepped off the palace escort and onto the familiar soil of my hometown, a mix of emotions swirled inside me. I was relieved to be back home, yet anxious about facing my parents and best friend, who were surely worried sick about me.

The past few days at the palace had been a whirlwind of training, awkward encounters with Alpha Treyton, and struggling to navigate the complexities of pack politics. I was exhausted but grateful for the experience.

But my heart raced as I approached my house. What would my parents say? How would they react to my sudden departure and return? And what about my best friend, Kairo? She must have been frantic with worry.

I took a deep breath and pushed open the door. The warm glow of the living room enveloped me, and the sound of voices ceased as everyone turned to face me.

"Ava!" my mother exclaimed, rushing towards me with open arms. "Thank the goddess you're home safe!"

My father's expression was stern, but his eyes betrayed his concern. "Ava,