CHAPTER EIGHTY FOUR - CONFESSION OF LOVE

The confrontation marked a turning point in their relationship. The easy companionship they had shared was replaced by a tense, wary distance. Erik began keeping a closer watch on Anna, his protective instincts heightened by jealousy. Anna felt the weight of his gaze wherever she went, saw the hurt and suspicion in his eyes whenever she spoke to another pack member. It broke her heart, but she forced herself to stay focused on her mission. She was doing this for him, for the pack. She had to believe that in the end, he would understand. Despite the strain between them, there were still moments when their connection shone through. One night, during a particularly violent thunderstorm, Anna found herself unable to sleep. She wandered down to the kitchen, hoping a cup of tea might calm her nerves. To her surprise, she found Erik already there, staring out the window at the raging storm. He turned as she entered, and for a moment, the mask of indifference he'd been wearing slipped, reve