The following morning, Lucien selected five of his most trusted warriors for the mission. They gathered in the courtyard as the sun rose, supplies and maps already prepared.
He turned to Willow last, cupping her face in his large hands. "You are in charge of pack affairs until I return, my Luna. Handle everything with the same strength you showed during the coronation. I won't be gone long."
Willow nodded, fighting back tears as she leaned into his touch. "Come back to me, Lucien." Even though deep down she knew he wouldn't find the plant, she didn't want to ruin his hope. Finding that plant meant a life must go, but it wouldn't be Warrick's.
She should focus on sending her mother letters about her pregnancy again.
Lucien kissed her deeply, pouring all his love and promise into it, then rested his forehead against hers.
"I will always come back to you, little bird."
