Chapter 117

• “Maybe it would help to get out of the house for a bit,” she offers gently. “We could go downstairs, see some of the others. Just hang out. No pressure.”
• I manage a small smile, appreciating the gesture more than I can say. Still, the thought of facing the rest of the pack feels like too much right now. The noise, the questions, the looks. I’m not ready to wear the mask today.
• “Maybe later,” I reply, squeezing her hand. “I think I just need a little time to clear my head.”