**Steps Along Forgotten Roads**
**By Sophia Reed**
**Chapter 289: A Warm Welcome**
**Judy’s POV**
Leaning casually against the doorframe, Gavin wore a playful smirk that instantly made me roll my eyes. The thought of switching packs was utterly ludicrous to me; I had no intention of abandoning my roots. No matter how much the dynamics shifted with Ethan poised to take the reins as Alpha of the Redmoon pack, that place was still home. My family, my friends—they were all intertwined with the very essence of that pack.
Gavin, of course, was well aware of my steadfast loyalty, and I could see the glimmer of mischief in his eyes, as if he were barely holding back a laugh at my expense.
“Alpha, it’s a pleasure to see you,” Harper greeted, her head bowing slightly in a gesture of respect. “I was just ensuring Judy was comfortable before I moved on to my other responsibilities. Is there anything you require while I’m here?”
“No, I’m fine. Thank you, Harper,” he replied, his tone polite and appreciative.
I couldn’t help but feel a swell of admiration as I observed how he treated his staff with dignity, a stark contrast to the Cash family, who regarded their employees as mere tools. The thought of my mother still residing in that oppressive household sent a shiver through me, but Taylor had reassured me that she would remain unharmed. Gavin would ensure that, and I clung to that promise like a lifeline.
With a nod, Harper excused herself from the room, leaving me alone with Gavin. My heart raced as he stepped inside, closing the door with a soft click behind him.
“Is everything to your liking?” he asked, his gaze sweeping over the room.
“Yes, it’s perfect,” I replied, still in disbelief that he had managed to gather all my belongings.
He shrugged nonchalantly. “It wasn’t difficult. I just wanted to make sure you felt at home.”
A warmth spread across my cheeks, and I was acutely aware of how flushed I must look.
“Thanks again,” I said softly, my gratitude spilling over. “For everything.”
“I’m just relieved to see you well. Dr. Peirce truly is exceptional,” he remarked, his eyes searching my face. I felt a wave of embarrassment wash over me at the memory of being vulnerable in front of him.
“She was incredibly kind. Taylor is fortunate to have her as a mate,” I commented, trying to shift the focus away from my own discomfort.
“Indeed, he is,” Gavin agreed, a hint of warmth in his voice. “By the way, you’re expected to resume your duties Monday evening after school. You’ll be coming to the Villa to tutor Matt. Leroy will be here later and will be staying.”
“Taylor mentioned that to me,” I confirmed, feeling a sense of normalcy in the routine.
An awkward silence enveloped us, the air thick with unspoken words. I knew we needed to address the complexities of our relationship, which had been left hanging in the balance. The aftermath of everything that had transpired left me feeling uncertain about where I stood with him. My gaze dropped to the floor, but I could feel his eyes piercing through me, studying my expression with an intensity that made my heart race.


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