#Chapter 81: Packing

Aria My backpack lay open on my bed, half-packed with clothes I wasn’t even sure I would even need. It wasn’t exactly as if I had a manual for what to bring to the pack lands—what did one even wear to meet a council of werewolf elders? I sighed, staring at the modest pile of sweaters, jeans, and a couple of nicer dresses, none of which seemed particularly right for the occasion. Behind me, Darren stood leaning against the doorframe, looking utterly out of place in my tiny apartment. His broad shoulders practically filled the space, making the room feel even smaller than usual. I could sense him watching me as I moved back and forth between my dresser and the suitcase, his presence quiet but impossible to ignore. “Are you sure you don’t mind waiting?” I asked, glancing over my shoulder at him. “This might take a while.” He shrugged, the corner of his mouth quirking up into a faint smile. “I’m not in a rush.” I nodded, trying to focus on the task at h