Chapter 79

As I petted the robotic dog, whose tail wagged at helicopter speed, memories of Daisy—the Bichon Frise I'd had as a child—rushed back to me. She had been a birthday gift from my father, the Alpha of Blackwood pack, who had always ensured I had everything I needed despite my Omega status. I had adored that little ball of fur, carrying her everywhere and spending hours grooming her curly white coat. The memory brought a bittersweet ache to my chest—unlike this artificial creation, Daisy's lifespan had been limited. She passed away when I turned twelve, giving me my first lesson in loss and the fragility of bonds. I stared down at the robotic puppy, memories of Daisy flooding back. Father had arranged a proper burial for her at the Blackwood territory's pet cemetery—a sacred space where pack members honored the animal companions who had walked beside them. After watching her being lowered into the earth, I'd sworn never to invite that particular heartache into my life again. "Hello, Snowb