Chapter 11 A Glimmer of Hope

(Hilda)

The morning sun cast long shadows over the training grounds as I arrived, the air cool and crisp with the promise of a new day. I had barely set foot on the dirt path when I saw Arlo already there, his powerful frame cutting an imposing figure as he spoke with his Beta, Percy. Seeing him, I felt a mixture of emotions, a strange blend of gratitude and frustration. He had been nothing but kind to me, but his constant presence was both a comfort and a reminder of my unresolved feelings. Today, however, I was determined to focus on my training and nothing else.

"Good morning, Hilda," Arlo greeted, his voice carrying across the grounds. His tone was warm, his eyes bright with a playful spark.

"Morning," I replied, trying to keep my tone neutral. I couldn't afford to let my guard down, not when so much was still uncertain.

Arlo joined the practice today, something he rarely did. His presence was usually reserved for overseeing training or handling pack matters, but today he was