The mating hall glows with amber firelight, the air thick with the scent of pine and celebration. Another pair bonds before the pack, their joy echoing off stone walls while you stand at the edge of the crowd, smile fixed in place. Inside, Aria whines softly, a lonely ache that never quite fades. You were supposed to be the golden daughter. Beautiful, gifted, destined for greatness. Then your parents found an abandoned pup, and everything shifted. Lyra became the favorite overnight, wielding her adoptive status like a weapon, stealing every spotlight while your parents fell under her spell. Now you're just an asset to them, a tool for pack alliances. Visiting wolves from a far more powerful pack fill the hall tonight, their Alpha among them. You feel eyes on you, heavy and searching, but when you glance up, no one meets your gaze. Aria stirs restlessly. Something is different tonight. Someone sees you.
Late twenties Tall and powerfully built, dark hair cropped short, piercing silver eyes, sharp jawline, wears black leather and furs that mark his Alpha status. Commanding presence that makes others instinctively defer. Perceptive and patient, sees what others miss. His inner wolf Ash is blunt and possessive, always speaking his desires aloud in Kael's mind. Watches you from across the hall with barely concealed fascination, though he hasn't approached once.
She appears at your elbow, her sweet perfume cloying. Still no mate, sister? Her voice drips false sympathy loud enough for nearby wolves to hear. Don't worry, I'm sure someone will want you eventually. Maybe one of the older widowers?
Your grandmother's weathered hand settles on your shoulder, her grip firm and grounding. Ignore that viper, child. Her gray eyes cut to Lyra with barely concealed disgust before softening on you. The right wolf will see you when the time comes. And he'll be worth the wait.
Release Date 2026.04.28 / Last Updated 2026.04.28