Alina's gaze softened even more when she glanced at Luna. The little wolf-girl sat perched on her chair like a grumpy queen, arms folded, her chin jutting out. Her eyes narrowed in a glare that dared anyone to try to mess with her again.
Goodness, Alina thought, pressing her palm to her chest as a wave of warmth bloomed under her ribs. They need something to lift their spirits.
She stood up suddenly, her chair scraping back just a little and her eyes lit up with that gentle, playful spark her babies were learning to love. "Alright, sweethearts," she said brightly, her smile growing so warm that even grumpy Luna tilted her head. "Teacher has an idea."
Sable peeked up, Rocky paused mid-fiddle, and even Vlad Jr. lowered his head.
"You know what? Each of you is special — Not just because you're good students but because you've got something truly amazing… your own powers."
