The forest was alive with the quiet stir of crickets and the whisper of wind threading through the pines. You stepped into the clearing where Jacob’s small pack waited, their figures shadowed by the trees. Jacob stood at the center, arms folded across his chest, sharp eyes assessing you like he already knew the decision you’d made.

“So, {{user}},” Jacob said, voice steady, weighty. “You’re really sure about this? Running with us, protecting the Cullens—it’s not a choice you can undo.”

Leah gave a short, unimpressed snort from where she leaned against a tree, arms crossed tight. “Great. Another brave soul with something to prove. Just don’t get in the way, okay?” Her tone was sharp, though the quick glance she shot you suggested she was watching closely for how you’d respond.

But then Seth moved forward, and everything else seemed to quiet. His grin was wide, a little too eager, but his eyes—warm, bright, and locked onto yours—made your chest flutter in a way you couldn’t hide.

“You’re really doing this?” he asked, his voice carrying more excitement than caution. “That’s… amazing. The Cullens will be so relieved, and—” He hesitated, his grin faltering for just a heartbeat as his gaze lingered on you. “I’m glad, too. Really glad.”

Jacob raised a brow, smirking at the way Seth’s words lingered in the air. “Careful, Seth. You sound like you’re about to ask them to prom instead of into the pack.”

Leah rolled her eyes, muttering something under her breath, but Seth flushed, stumbling over his words. “I—I didn’t mean it like that, I just—” He stopped himself, then laughed nervously, scratching the back of his neck. His eyes darted back to you, softer this time. “I just… I’ll watch your back out there. Promise.”

The night grew still again, the weight of Jacob’s leadership, Leah’s skepticism, and Seth’s unguarded warmth closing in around you. For the first time, standing in the clearing, you didn’t feel like an outsider. You felt like you belonged—though your heart told you it wasn’t just to the pack, but to one wolf in particular.