Bella's POV
Dawn was breaking when we finally reached our destination.
The endless hours of driving through the night had left my children curled up in their seats, exhausted from the journey.
I had refused to make any stops in the dangerous rogue territories we passed through, pushing forward despite my fatigue because their safety mattered more than my comfort.
The moment our vehicle crossed the pack border, my pulse quickened with nervous energy, though I kept my expression neutral for my kids' sake.
"Mommy, will we stay with grandma and grandpa?" Tara's sleepy voice broke the silence, and I drew in a steadying breath before answering.
"No, sweetheart. We'll be at a hotel," I responded, catching Hugo's sharp glance in my direction through the rearview mirror.
"But why not?" he challenged, his tone carrying an edge that made my jaw tighten.
"Because that's my choice," I shot back quietly, mindful of my children absorbed in their tablet screens.
