43

She’d made cabbage stew and brought fresh rolls of bread from the mess hall. The cabin smelled savory and wonderful—like home. Doc was reviewing some papers at the dinner table. He was so involved in them that he didn’t notice Lance and me coming in.

“Damon.” Mom only spoke his name, but in an instant, he stopped looking at his work to focus on her.

He brightened when he saw us. “Good to see you, Alpha, Lance,” he said. “I was wondering how the two of us were going to finish this stew.”

Mom laughed and took the seat next to him. Lance and I sat and helped ourselves to the stew. Between Doc and Mom, the conversation was lively and interesting, but I found her stealing glances at me. When everyone had had their fill, Lance yawned.

“Sleepy?” Mom asked with a smile.

He nodded. “I should walk this off, and I have some people I want to talk to. Night, you coming?”

“Sure—”

“Actually, Night, I was wondering if you could help me hang a picture before you leave,” Mom said.

“A picture?” Doc tilt