Page 186 of Knotting the Firefighters

Time has simultaneously crawled and raced since pack formation.

I nod confirmation, relief evident:

"They're moving toward the sentencing phase. Prosecution believes they have sufficient evidence for conviction, which means Gregory and his pack could actually face prison time rather than just fines or probation."

Justice.

Real justice.

Accountability for attempted murder.

"I'm relieved," the admission emerges quietly, vulnerability evident. "Especially now that I can focus on building our pack rather than constantly preparing for the next attack."

Building.

Not surviving, building.

Proactive rather than reactive.

Progress.

Bear's smirk is knowing—satisfaction evident as he recognizes the significance of my phrasing.

"So I guess this arrangement won't remain temporary?"

Temporary.

That word again.

The qualifier we've been clinging to despite increasingly obvious permanence.

I laugh—a genuine sound that acknowledges the absurdity of continuing to pretend this is a trial period rather than an established reality.

He leans down, capturing my mouth in a kiss that tastes like morning coffee and promises, gentle pressure that communicates affection without demanding response.

When he pulls back slightly, I whisper against his lips:

"No, probably not temporary anymore. I'm actually enjoying having pack, enjoying this dynamic, enjoying each of you individually and collectively."

Truth.

Uncomfortable truth about how thoroughly they've integrated into my life.

How much I'd miss them if this ended.

His smirk widens—triumph evident, satisfaction at verbal confirmation of what body language has been broadcasting for weeks.

"Well, you haven't really experienced the country cowboy side of our pack yet," he observes with theatrical seriousness. "Can't make a fully informed decision without a complete data set."

Country cowboy side.

What does that even mean?

I laugh, curiosity overriding any concern:

"Oh, really? Okay, try me. Show me this mysterious country aspect I've been missing."

Challenge accepted.