The next morning, I filed for leave for Jared, but I also reached out to Felicia. My voice stayed steady on the call, even though my instincts were still unsettled from everything that had happened. When I told her I needed three months away from the pack territory, there was a sharp silence on the other end—like she couldn't immediately process the distance I was trying to create.
"Did you tell President Presgrave about this?" Felicia finally asked.
Even through the phone, I could sense her hesitation. It wasn't just a work decision anymore—it was pack hierarchy. She knew my request didn't sit entirely within her authority.
"I did," I replied. "But if he refuses… I'll step away from the pack entirely."
There was another pause. Then she exhaled. "I'll speak to him."
Ten minutes later, she called back.
"He approved it," Felicia said. "Three months of paid leave. He didn't question it."
Her tone softened. "But I'm going to miss you."
