Seeds of Doubt

VANESSA

The text from my father came just as I was settling Fabian for his afternoon nap.

"Need to speak with you. My office. Important."

Short and to the point—typical Dad. I sighed, brushing a strand of hair from Fabian's peaceful face. My son had finally drifted off after a story about brave wolf princes and magical forests, his favorite these days.

I quietly slipped from his room, making sure the wolf-shaped night light was on before closing the door. The conversation with my father yesterday had been unexpectedly emotional. I wasn't sure I was ready for another heart-to-heart so soon.

But when the Alpha summons, you answer—even if he's your dad.

I knocked softly on the heavy oak door of his study.

"Enter," his deep voice commanded.

Dad sat behind his imposing desk, looking every bit the powerful Alpha he was—back straight, expression serious, eyes sharp. Whatever tenderness he'd shown yesterday was carefully tucked away now.