I kept my eyes glued to the forest, watching as shadows moved between the trees with supernatural grace. The tall warrior Gabriel had identified as Hunter approached our SUV first.
Without a word, the imposing man pulled off his shirt and stepped back. I’d grown up around werewolves, but the transformation still fascinated me. His body shimmered, bones snapping and reforming as thick gray fur erupted across his skin. Within seconds, a massive gray wolf stood where the man had been, amber eyes watching us intently.
The wolf turned, flicking his tail in a clear “follow me” gesture. Gabriel started the engine again, following as Hunter led us down a barely visible path deeper into the forest.
“Is this normal?” I asked, noticing four more warriors–three men and a woman–running through the trees on either side of our vehicle.
Lucas nodded. “Standard security protocol. They’re making sure we stay on the designated path.”
“And making sure we don’t try anything,” Gabriel added, his hands steady on the wheel as he navigated the rough terrain. “It’s what I’d do.”
As we drove deeper into Moon Shadow territory, a distinct scent grew stronger–cedar mixed with mountain air and something wild, primal. It filled my nostrils, somehow both comforting and thrilling.
“What’s that smell?” I couldn’t help asking, my nose twitching.
Gabriel and Lucas exchanged a quick glance in the rearview mirror.
“What smell?” Gabriel asked carefully.
“Like cedar and… something else. It’s getting stronger.”
Lucas coughed awkwardly. “You’ll find out soon enough.”
The path widened suddenly, trees giving way to a massive clearing. In the center stood an impressive structure–part modern lodge, part ancient fortress. The building was three stories tall, constructed of massive timber logs and natural stone. Wide windows caught the late afternoon sun, and several smaller cabins dotted the surrounding area.
Hunter shifted back to human form beside a large oak tree where clothes waited. He pulled on a pair of athletic shorts and approached our vehicle as we parked.
“Welcome to Moon Shadow Pack,” he announced, his deep voice carrying natural authority. “I’m Hunter, Beta to Alpha Jace.”
I stepped out of the SUV, stretching cramped muscles while drinking in the fresh mountain air. That mysterious scent was stronger here, pulling at something deep inside me.
Hunter gestured toward the main building. “The pack house. Everything you need is inside.”
We followed him up wide stone steps to massive double doors carved with wolf designs. Inside, the building was surprisingly bright and open, with high ceilings and natural materials everywhere.
“First floor has the kitchen, dining hall, meeting areas, Alpha’s office and the pup center, Hunter explained as we walked through a wide hallway. “Second floor is regular pack member quarters–each room has its own bathroom. Top floor is restricted access, Alpha’s approval only.”
1/3
Chapter 7
As we passed one room, I heard laughter
nd singing. Peeking inside I saw a colorful space filled with young werewolves playing. Some were reading books, others building with blocks, while a few older pups practiced simple combat moves under a woman’s watchful eye.
“Looks like fun,” Lucas commented, a smile tugging at his lips.
“Ahem.”
The deep sound from behind us made me jump. Hunter immediately straightened his posture, his entire demeanor shifting.
“Alpha, I was just giving them the tour. We were heading to your offre next,” Hunter explained quickly.
I turned around and nearly forgot to breathe.
The man standing there emanated power like heat from a furnace. He stood well over six feet tall, with deep brown hair that fell in slight waves just above his shoulders. His chest was bare, revealing muscles that looked carved from stone. His worn jeans hung low on narrow hips, and his feet were bare against the polished wood floor.
But it was his eyes that truly captured me–ice blue, piercing and intelligent. They seemed to see right through my careful defenses, examining everything I tried to hide.
I realized with horror that I was staring directly into his eyes–a challenge in werewolf culture. I quickly lowered my gaze, my heart hammering against my ribs.
A deep chuckle rumbled from his chest. “No need to be so formal,” he said, his voice warm and low. “Come on, let’s head to my office.”
As we walked down the hallway, I couldn’t help but notice how he moved–confident and powerful, like a predator completely at ease in his territory. Every step was deliberate, controlled. I inhaled deeply and suddenly realized–the mysterious scent was coming from him. My body responded instinctively, warming at his proximity
Jace’s office was spacious yet comfortable, with large windows overlooking the entire territory. Mountain ranges stretched into the distance, bathed in golden afternoon light. Bookshelves lined one wall, a massive desk dominated another, and comfortable seating was arranged near a stone fireplace.
He disappeared through a side door, returning moments later wearing a dark button–up shirt, though he’d left several buttons undone.
“Sorry about the state of undress,” he said, running a hand through his hair. “You arrived earlier than expected, and I didn’t have time to change after my run.”
“No apologies necessary, Alpha,” Gabriel responded respectfully. “This is your territory. We’re all wolves here–half–dresse isn’t exactly foreign to us.“<
Jace smiled, his gaze briefly flicking to me. The look sent warmth coursing through my body.
“Not all of us,” he noted, his voice softer.
He settled behind his desk, motioning for us to take seats across from him.
naked
“The Whitmans told me what’s been happening with Warren,” Jace began, his tone turning serious. “I understand why you had to leave so quickly.”
Gabriel shifted uncomfortably. “Thank you for taking us in, Alpha. We can discuss the details another time.”
Jace’s eyes hardened slightly. “Gabriel, does Aria know the full truth? From what the Whitmans said, I got the impression you might
2/3
Chapter 7
have shielded her from some it.”
Gabriel sighed heavily, then gestured for
me to sit. 1 perched on
the edge
of a chair, suddenly tense.
