Hay Creek

Epilogue

Avery (8 Years Later)

Born: December 31, Wolf Cycle 3046
Weight: 7 lbs, 13 oz
Time: 12:59 PM
Parents: Proud parents, Kai and Avery Larson
Pup: Elia-Grey Forest Larson

I had seen him in my dreams—a beautiful gray-haired wolf with forest green eyes. The overwhelming joy and love I felt as I cradled him in my arms were indescribable, bringing tears of happiness to my eyes.

Kai sat beside me, beaming with pride. He touched our son's tiny hand, and Elia wrapped his fingers around Kai's finger, creating a tender moment between them.

"Your family is impatient; they'd like to meet him," the midwife said, offering us a warm smile.

"Let them in," I replied softly.

Before long, the room filled with family and friends, their smiles radiating warmth and love. I couldn't have been happier.

"I have a special surprise for you," Kai whispered, drawing my attention. I blinked in confusion.

"He's beautiful," I murmured, glancing back at our son.

And there she was—my mom. The sight of her brought fresh tears to my eyes as she took a seat at the end of the bed. "Your father would be proud. I know he's looking down at his beautiful grandson right now. Congratulations."

Kai (10 Years Later)

Her eyes sparkled like brilliant emeralds as she admired her 18k white gold signature five-stone trellis diamond ring. Back then, she had insisted I didn't need to go all out, but now she simply smiled at it, radiating happiness and gratitude. If anyone had reason to be thankful, it was me. We had faced so much since 'the big battle,' navigating our challenges together as one pack.

Today was special. We had spent the entire morning working with Roman, Luna Mila, Theodore, Jason, Skyler, Mia, Greyson, Jayden, Stella, and Quinn to create a trail route through the forest. With that task finally complete, it was time to head home.

Upon arriving, we were greeted by the most amazing aroma wafting from the kitchen—elders cooking up a feast. As I had mentioned, it was a special day, especially since the Darkmoon pack was joining us.

"Larson, how about we wait at the finish instead of cheering them on at the beginning?" Roman suggested as he stood beside me.

"Sounds good to me," I agreed.

Over time, Roman and I had become good friends. We learned to embrace our differences and leave the past behind. We both had bright futures ahead, promising to be better than our fathers had been. So far, things were looking good.

"Kaiden! Go find your son! All the children are already downstairs, except for yours," Avery called out.

I smiled; there was only one person I allowed to use that name, and she used it only when ordering me around—Avery Larson.

"Yes! You too, Roman. Please find Dash," Mila chimed in.

Roman sighed, rolling his eyes playfully. "I'm already on my way," he replied, strolling out of the living room.

"I'll go look for him," I said.

A smile formed on Avery's lips. "Thank you."

We found the boys playing hide-and-seek in my office. It wasn't hard to locate them—they were terrible at hiding. As Roman and I entered quietly, soft giggles emanated from beneath my desk. Roman smiled and shook his head, and I couldn't help but do the same.

"I must admit, they are exceptionally good at hiding," I said, trying to sound disappointed.

"I agree. It's been an hour, and we still can't find them," Roman added with feigned disappointment.

"Maybe we should just give up," I suggested, shrugging.

"Yes, I think we should," he replied.

Their giggles grew louder as we continued to indulge their satisfaction of being the best at hiding. After a few minutes, we decided to reveal them by opening and closing the door, making it seem like we had left the room. Before long, their heads popped up from behind the desk, and the sight of their bewildered faces sent us into laughter.

"That's not funny," Dash huffed, peeking his head to the side, looking utterly annoyed.

"Way to go, Dad. We'll get better," Elia said, straightening up.

"I bet you will. Come on; everyone is waiting downstairs," I urged.

After dinner, we all ventured into the woods for Elia and Dash's first run as wolves. I felt a swell of pride watching Elia shift for the first time. Avery was nervous and anxious; she made me promise that if anything went wrong during the shift, I would force it to stop. I assured her he would be fine. He was ready—he had said so countless times. I don't think I had gone to bed in the last few days doubting it; I believed in him.

"If you don't know the way, just call. There are enough of us wandering around the woods to make sure everything goes smoothly. Stay together—"

"Mom, I know. I won't do anything crazy," he replied, rolling his eyes playfully.

Avery nodded, her expression softening. "Okay. Good luck, my sweet little gray wolf."

I squatted down to his level and stroked his head. He wagged his tail and blinked at me, filled with excitement.

"Good luck, son. We're proud of you. We'll meet you at the finish."