Chapter 135

Sarah's POV I caught Elena's warning glance and immediately understood. My maternal instincts instantly kicked in. This wasn't a conversation for little ears. "Sweetheart," I said gently, stroking Aria's hair, "why don't you go to your room for a bit? Mommy needs to talk with Aunt Elena." "But—" Aria's small fingers gripped my sleeve tighter, her eyes wide with lingering fear. The bond between us was almost tangible, like an invisible thread connecting our hearts. I pressed a kiss to her forehead. "Just for a little while. I'll come tuck you in soon, I promise. And tomorrow, we'll spend the whole day together, okay?" She hesitated, then nodded reluctantly. "Promise?" "Cross my heart," I whispered, making the gesture over my chest. My wolf might be gone, but the fierce protection I felt for my daughter burned stronger than any animal instinct ever could. If my wolf had still been with me, she would have been pacing anxiously, demanding I shield my pup from whatever had hurt Elena. Once