Presents Over Presence

VANESSA

Relief washed over me when Fabian finally opened his eyes. After the terror of the fire, seeing his smile again was like the first breath of air after nearly drowning. But my heart immediately sank when his first words weren't for me.

"Where's Roman? Is my dad here?"

I swallowed hard, forcing a smile. "Not yet, sweetie, but I can call him."

The hopeful look on his face made my decision for me. No matter how complicated things were between Roman and me, Fabian deserved to have his father here. I stepped into the hallway of the Moonstone Pack's medical wing, my fingers trembling slightly as I dialed Roman's number.

"Hello?" A female voice answered. Not just any female voice—Seraphina's.

My stomach clenched. "I need to speak with Roman."

"He's unavailable at the moment." Her tone was cool, detached. "I can take a message."

I gritted my teeth. "Tell him Fabian is awake and asking for him."