Chapter 144

HAZEL

The sun hangs low in the sky, and it casts a glow over the serene water of the lake on the outskirts of the pack. Ethan, Arnold, and I spread out a blanket under the shade of a towering oak tree, and the gentle breeze brings the scent of wildflowers and pine to us.

"This is perfect," Ethan says with a contented sigh, as he settles down beside me. "This is just what we needed. A break from everything."

Arnold nods in agreement as his eyes look over the peaceful scenery. "It’s been too long since we’ve had a moment like this."

I smile as I feel a sense of peace settle over me too. "I couldn’t agree more."

We unpack the picnic basket. It’s a simple but rich spread of assorted sandwiches, fruits, a pitcher of lemonade, and a jug of cool water. Ethan pours us each a glass of lemonade. It’s moments like these, where we can simply be together, that remind me of everything we’ve fought for and everything we have to look forward to.

As we eat, laughter fills the air, mingling with the di