Two days later, David and Cynthia returned with the wolf pack.
As before, David held Cynthia close while they both rode Snow Wolf.
The newly named Snowy, the female snow wolf, trotted alongside her mate, showing affection at every opportunity.
Truthfully, both David and Cynthia could have ridden separate wolves, but neither mentioned it. They silently agreed to return the way they came.
This time, however, Cynthia's feelings had shifted.
Over the past two days, she'd endured watching the snow wolves flaunt their affection unabashedly, and it was impossible not to be affected.
Cynthia found herself increasingly aware of David. Despite her usual mistrust of men, David felt like an exception—a man whose presence she not only tolerated but craved.
She valued her freedom and despised feeling confined. Yet, being held by him didn't feel like a cage. Instead, it brought her an unfamiliar sense of peace.
When had this change begun?
Perhaps it started when David freed her from the dark prison, guiding her into the light and giving her the courage to follow him into the unknown.
"Cynthia."
David's low voice pulled her from her thoughts.
She tilted her head back to meet his gaze, her fox-like eyes shimmering with a mix of nervousness and shyness. Her delicate features and youthful innocence were utterly disarming.
David felt his throat dry, his body warming with a surge of emotion. Slowly, he leaned in, his lips drawing closer to hers.
Cynthia's eyes widened momentarily before fluttering shut, her heart pounding as she felt the warmth of his breath.
---
Back at Frost Wolf Ridge's forested foothills, the gray wolves had been settled into their new home.
Snow Wolf and Snowy had disappeared into the underbrush, likely indulging in their usual escapades.
"I should go," David said, standing before Cynthia.
"Mm." Cynthia's face was still flushed, her lips tingling from the earlier kiss.
For both of them, today had been a milestone. Though they'd only taken a small step, their relationship now felt more tangible, a bridge crossed into deeper territory.
Were they… lovers now?
David smiled softly at her hesitation, leaning down to steal another quick kiss. Cynthia, startled, instinctively closed her eyes and tiptoed up to meet him. The sight of her petite form standing with such earnestness beside his tall frame created a uniquely endearing contrast.
"You know what? I think I'll stay tonight," David said suddenly.
Cynthia's eyes flew open, her expression flustered. "I-I'm not ready for that!"
"Relax, silly," David chuckled. "I just want to hold you. That's all."
Reassured by his gentle tone, Cynthia nodded, her heart still racing.
That night, they lay on a wide patch of grass, gazing up at the endless stars. The quiet rhythm of their breathing mingled with the stillness of the world, creating a harmony that felt like it existed just for them.
Under the vast sky, time seemed to pause. They were each other's universe, free from constraints and the weight of the world.
Cynthia reveled in the moment, feeling the security of David's arms around her. She'd never imagined finding such comfort in anyone's presence.
"Thank you, my lord," she whispered inwardly, a faint smile curling her lips as she drifted into sleep.
---
The next morning, Cynthia woke to the warmth of sunlight on her face.
Blinking sleepily, she found herself in a soft bed, though she didn't recall moving.
Just as she swung her legs off the edge, the door creaked open, and David entered, his shirtless frame illuminated by the morning light.
"Morning. Breakfast is ready," he said casually, his tone warm.
Cynthia quickly averted her eyes, cheeks flushed as she stammered a response.
As she made her way downstairs, she passed Fire Dance carrying fresh linens into the room.
The maid paused, glancing at the bed. It was spotless—far from the chaos she'd expected.
So the lord… really did just sleep here?
---
At the breakfast table, Water Lily had already set the dishes, and Lydia, Amy, and Reina were seated.
Amy eagerly waved Cynthia over, patting the seat next to her. "Sit here, Cynthia! This is your spot now."
Still dazed, Cynthia complied, taking the offered seat.
"Welcome to the family, little sister," Amy teased with a wink.
Cynthia froze, her mind racing. Did they think…?
Yet, as she took in their warm smiles, she felt a sudden wave of comfort. She didn't correct them.
For the first time in a long while, she felt like she belonged.
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