VANESSA
The torches flickered against the night sky, illuminating our procession up the narrow mountain path. Every step carried the weight of history, of bloodlines, of destiny. The members of the Moonstone Pack walked in perfect formation behind me, their footsteps a rhythmic drumbeat against the ancient stone.
I held Fabian's small hand in mine, his fingers warm and trusting. Despite the solemn occasion, I couldn't help but smile at his wide eyes taking in everything—the dancing flames, the starlit sky above, the imposing silhouette of High Ridge against the full moon.
"Mommy?" Fabian whispered, his voice carrying in the hushed silence. "Why didn't we invite Daddy to this?"
The question pierced through me like an arrow. I swallowed hard, buying time before answering. "This is a Moonstone Pack ceremony, sweetie. Only our pack members attend."
"But he's my daddy," Fabian persisted with the relentless logic of a child. "And you said I'm a prince. Isn't he a prince too?"