Chapter 99: Crash
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Chapter 99
~ Zara’s POV~
The scent of pine and earth filled my senses as I stepped out of my car in front of the Crescent Moon pack house.
As I entered, I could feel my heart rate quicken, anticipation and unease intertwining. I had no idea what kind of reception I’d receive, especially with how my last visit went.
When I entered the sitting room, my mother looked up, and her gaze had a strange mix of relief and judgment.
"So, you’ve finally come back after... fixing things with Ivan," she said coldly, yet undeniably grateful. "Whatever you did, I suppose we can thank you for buying us a moment’s peace."
"Mother," Elias’s voice cut in with a warning tone. He gave me a small, supportive nod before turning back to her with a furrowed brow. "Maybe we shouldn’t act like Zara owes us for fixing Ivan’s mess."
Sitting in his usual chair, my father cleared his throat, halting any brewing argument. He motioned for me to come closer, his worn face etched with worry. As I approached, he took my hand gently.
"Thank you, Zara," he murmured, barely above a whisper. "I don’t know how you managed it, but I know it wasn’t easy. I... I don’t know what to say either. Ivan... he’s been a thorn and I... we should have supported you when you decided to leave him."
His gratitude brought a small, unexpected ache to my chest. This was the father I’d grown up admiring—the man who had taught me strength.