Chapter 7 Sanctuary?

Lyra POV

The sleek SUV cut through the night, headlights carving a path through the darkness as Gabriel drove us toward Silver Moon territory. My fingers traced nervous patterns on my thigh as I tried to appear calm, though my wolf remained vigilant, analyzing every movement of the imposing Alpha beside me.

"Silver Moon Pack specializes in water industries," Gabriel explained, his deep voice filling the car's interior. "We manage several fisheries along the coast, though we've diversified into sustainable logging as well." His profile remained stoic in the dashboard's dim glow. "Unlike some packs, we maintain cooperative relationships with humans in nearby towns. Sheriff Brooks, who notified me about you, is one such ally."

I nodded politely, though my thoughts raced in chaotic spirals. Had my performance been convincing enough? Did he suspect anything? The ease with which Gabriel had agreed to my temporary residence seemed almost too convenient. In the two years I'd lived with Dominic, not once had I witnessed a lone wolf being accepted into the pack without rigorous scrutiny. Well, except for me—but that was different.

A cold shiver ran through me at the memory. If Dominic had ulterior motives for bringing me into his pack, what might Gabriel want? His kindness could mask something darker. "Stay alert," my wolf cautioned. "We can't afford to be naive again."

The SUV turned onto a winding road flanked by towering pines, their shadows creating dancing patterns across the moonlit pavement. Minutes later, we passed through an understated stone entrance, the scent of many wolves growing stronger—marking the boundary of Silver Moon territory.

"We're home," Gabriel announced, a hint of pride coloring his words.

Silver Moon's compound emerged from the darkness—a harmonious collection of modern cabins and traditional structures centered around a large communal building. Unlike Crimson Pine's militant precision, this pack's layout flowed naturally with the landscape, embracing rather than conquering its surroundings.

Gabriel parked before an elegant two-story home—unmistakably the Alpha residence—and led me inside. The interior was unexpectedly warm, decorated with natural woods and soft furnishings in earth tones.

"You'll stay here," he stated, showing me to a spacious guest room on the first floor. "Olivia will ensure you have everything you need."

"I can stay in the pack house. I don't want to disturb you and your Luna," I offered quickly, not wanting special treatment that might draw attention.

Gabriel's expression remained neutral. "Olivia isn't my Luna. I don't have one. Besides, the pack house is for official members. Since you haven't decided to join us yet, guests traditionally stay here." His tone softened slightly. "Consider it our hospitality tradition. Visitors deserve our best accommodations."

His explanation eased some of my tension, though caution remained my companion. Most Alphas typically arranged separate guest houses for visitors, rarely hosting them in the Alpha residence since it was meant for the Alpha and their family. Even in my father's pack, he never had the habit of accommodating guests in the Alpha house.

"Olivia will prepare dinner," Gabriel continued. "I have matters to attend to, but I'll join you shortly."

A woman with kind eyes appeared in the doorway—Olivia, I presumed. Gabriel spoke briefly with her before disappearing upstairs.

"I've already eaten," I protested weakly, but Gabriel called over his shoulder with unexpected humor, "That diner food doesn't count as a proper meal."

Left alone with Olivia in the kitchen, I watched her efficient movements as she prepared a simple but fragrant meal. Unable to remain idle, I offered to help, using the opportunity to gather information.

"Is Alpha Gabriel always this welcoming to visiting wolves?" I asked, keeping my tone casual as I sliced vegetables.

Olivia smiled warmly. "He is. Whether they're passing through or seeking refuge, Gabriel always offers Alpha house hospitality first."

This caught my attention. "Have there been many lone wolves visiting recently?" I tried to sound merely curious rather than desperate.

"Not that I can remember," Olivia replied, giving me a questioning look. "Why do you ask?"

"Too direct," my wolf warned. I backpedaled quickly.

"Nothing specific. I'm just wondering how many newcomers join the pack. I'm concerned my skills might not be sufficient..."

Olivia's expression softened with understanding. "Relax. I once arrived here with my son and daughter after our original pack was destroyed." Her knife moved rhythmically against the cutting board. "Though there are formal tests for joining, Alpha Gabriel is compassionate. He sees potential where others might miss it, finding roles that suit each person's abilities. I'm certain anyone genuinely wanting to join will find their place here."

I smiled, genuinely touched by her story. Gabriel seemed like a good man, a fair Alpha... but then, Dominic had seemed that way once too. "Don't lower your guard," my wolf reminded me.

"Olivia gives me too much credit," Gabriel's voice startled us both as he entered the kitchen. He'd changed into more casual clothes, though his Alpha presence remained unmistakable.

Olivia laughed softly, setting our plates on the dining table before excusing herself.

Over dinner, Gabriel outlined the pack's daily operations. "Tomorrow I'll give you a proper tour. You should see how we function before making any decisions about joining us."

I nodded, sampling the delicious salmon Olivia had prepared.

"In about a week, we'll have the Season of the Harvest celebration," Gabriel continued. "This year, it’s our pack’s turn to host. It might be good timing for you to attend, meet wolves from neighboring packs, see if any feel right to you." He paused, his expression hardening slightly. "Though I wouldn't recommend the Crimson Pine Pack to the south."

My heart stuttered. I might run into Dominic there. I needed an excuse to skip it. Still, I forced myself to sound curious. "Why not?" I asked, proud of how steady my voice sounded.

Gabriel's fingers tapped once against his glass. "Let's just say there's bad blood between our packs, particularly between their Alpha and myself." His gaze pierced through me. "They're not welcoming to outsiders anyway. You might have passed near their territory during your travels? Today, they’re going wild—patrols everywhere, like they’re searching for something. All thanks to their Alpha, though. That guy is an arrogant, self-serving—"

The fork slipped from my fingers, clattering loudly against my plate as a jolt of panic went through my system.