Elliot brought Anastasia into the pack break room, a quiet space inside the Alpha estate where scent wards softened the pressure of surrounding pack corridors. Even so, her instincts felt tight and raw, every thought of her father sending a sharp pulse through her bond awareness, as if something vital still lingered but could no longer respond.
Her eyes were already glossy with tears she refused to let fall.
Elliot pulled her into his arms without hesitation, his Alpha presence steady and grounding, wrapping around her like protection rather than control. She leaned into him instinctively, and he gently wiped away her tears, letting her break without restraint or judgment.
"I'm sorry," she said, turning slightly to meet his gaze. "I really don't wish to get engaged at the moment. Can we postpone it?"
"Sure," he said at once, calm and certain. "Don't rush. It can be done after your father wakes up."
