[Third Person].
Draven sat beside Meredith, his presence steady and unmistakable, as the women and children ate and drank to their satisfaction.
Laughter rose in small pockets, children clustered together with flushed cheeks and sticky fingers, the earlier tension finally dissolving into something warm and real.
Meredith watched it all quietly, her hands folded in her lap, heart still taut but slowly easing. When the last bowls were set aside and cups emptied, she stood to her feet.
"Before you leave," she said gently, drawing the women’s attention back to her, "I want to remind you about the gift bags you will be taking home today."
She lifted one slightly. "Each item is labelled. Please follow the instructions as written. The teas are for headaches and digestion, and the balm is for wounds, joint pain, and tired hands. Use them carefully, and if something doesn’t suit you, stop."
Her tone was calm but firm, practical rather than indulgent.
Azul, Kira, Deidra, Cora, and Arya stepped forward at once, baskets in hand, moving efficiently among the benches. There were many women, but the servants worked smoothly, with soft smiles, and murmured explanations that were repeated patiently.
Meanwhile, Draven rose from his seat and offered to hand out the remaining candies to the children by himself, so a servant opened a smaller crate beside him.
"Children," one of the attendants called gently, "this way."
One by one, the children were guided toward Draven. He remained where he was, crouching slightly to meet them at eye level, handing each child a wrapped sweet with unhurried patience. Some stared at him wide-eyed. Others grinned boldly. One little boy bowed so deeply he nearly tipped over.
Draven steadied him with a quiet chuckle and passed him a second candy. Meredith watched with something warm blooming in her chest.
When the last gift was given and the baskets were empty, Draven straightened.
"Transportation has been arranged," he announced calmly. "Buses are waiting at the front of the estate to take everyone home safely."
The reaction was immediate. Voices lifted in gratitude. Smiles spread. Some of the women clasped their hands together, and others bowed deeply.
"Thank you, Alpha!"
"Thank you, Luna!"
A few moments later, servants began guiding the women and children toward the front path, the clearing slowly thinning as the gathering came to a close.
Just before Meredith turned away, a young woman stepped toward her.
She was single. Meredith could tell that much immediately, but there was nothing timid about her. She was well dressed, her posture straight, her eyes sharp with intelligence rather than need.
"My Luna," the woman said warmly, extending her hand. "No Luna has ever done this for the poor women. Thank you."
Meredith accepted the handshake, studying her more closely now. Beautiful, yes—but she was also composed and self-possessed. She didn’t look helpless or simple.
"What is your name?" Meredith asked.
The woman’s face brightened at once. "I am Helena, Luna."
"Helena," Meredith repeated, smiling. "I’m glad you came today."

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