Special Date

Matthew had been planning this for weeks. He'd wanted everything to be perfect, to surprise Sophia with something more than just the usual dinner or movie. He knew she wasn't one for grand gestures, but today was special. And Matthew loved making her smile.

The day had been cool but sunny, the perfect balance between late summer and the first hints of autumn. As the sun began to set, Matthew led Sophia through the quiet woods just outside their pack's territory. Sophia walked beside him, her curiosity growing with each step.

"Are you ever going to tell me where we're going?" she asked, a playful smile on her face as she tried to match his long strides.

Matthew grinned, shaking his head. "Nope. Just trust me."

Sophia huffed in mock annoyance but let him lead, though her mind raced with possibilities. His hand tightened slightly around hers, and she felt the warmth of his magic, always just beneath the surface, comforting and familiar.