Rowan came at me with purpose in his eyes. I’d just given Piper and Warrick their mission, and my mind was racing through all the variables when he broke the silence.

“Luna,” he started, his voice steady but tinged with uncertainty, “I want to help. Tell me what I can do to prove myself.”

I studied him a moment longer; he was sincere. “Rowan, are you sure? The pack’s trust in you is far from solid, and this mission calls for more than courage.”

He nodded firmly. “I know, but I need to show them and you that I’m not the wolf I used to be.

After a brief hesitation, I explained, noveldrama

“Calla’s allies are still out there. We need to disrupt their network, and I need someone to lead a group to intercept one of her known associates. Do you think you’re up for it?”

Rowan didn’t falter. “I’ll do whatever it takes.”

“Good,” I said. “But remember, you’ll need to earn the trust of those who follow you, not just demand it. Your leadership will be tested.”

As we discussed the details, Lila quietly approached, her supportive presence increasing Rowan’s confidence.

alone.”

I nodded, feeling a little hope mixed with trepidation. “Work together, and keep me updated. Rowan, this is your chance. Don’t blow it.”

That evening, late, Rowan returned with his people, all of whom seemed exhausted but pleased. He presented himself before me, in part proud, and in part relieved to give his report.

“The mission was. intense,” he began, glancing at Lila for

reassurance.

“The group was hesitant to trust me at first, but I managed to convince them. I laid out a strategy, and once they saw it working, they followed.”

“Tell me about the strategy,” I pressed, wanting to understand his approach.

He explained how they used the landscape to their advantage, taking up an ambush position that completely surprised the rogue wolves. His rapid thinking had flipped the situation on its head as the fight had become disorganized.

“And what happened?” I asked, softer now.

Rowan stood tall, his voice steady. “We won. They ran and we derailed their mission. It’s a small victory, but it’s a start.”

A small smile tugged at my lips. “Good work, Rowan. This is the kind of effort the pack needs to see from you.”

Later that afternoon, as our meeting concluded, I watched Lila