Because she does.
She just doesn't know it yet.
Maccon Manor sits proudly beneath the afternoon sun, every bit as imposing as it had the first time my father brought me here as a pup.
“It's beautiful,” Daria whispers.
“It is.”
“But...”
She looks towards the woods.
“...it also kind of looks like the house in every horror movie.”
I laugh.
“Honey.”
“What?”
“Please don't tell the Alpha that.”
“No promises.”
The front door swings open before we can knock.
Charley Maccon steps outside wearing jeans, boots, and the warmest smile I've ever seen.
“There you are!”
She hurries down the steps and, before Daria has time to react, wraps her in a hug.
“Welcome.”
Daria blinks in surprise before awkwardly hugging her back.
“Uh, thank you?”
Charley smiles.
“I've been looking forward to meeting you properly.”
“I've technically already fainted on your property.”
“We don't count first impressions around here.”
That earns a laugh from Daria.
Good.
Inside, Maccon Manor feels exactly like home should.
Warm.
Busy.
Lived in.
