Chapter 30 

I slammed the front tom behind me and rushed straight to the bathroom. No time for greetings. No time for questions, feci got to the shower betra a apart completely 

The hot water hill my skin, and I finally let go. Tears mixed with shower water as I pressed my forehead against the rool tile wall, stupid. Se prapid to think he actually cared. 

“He’s the Alpha,” I whispered to myself, scrubbing my skin harder than necessary. And you’re just a human.” 

The memory of Jace training with Scarlett replayed in my mind. Her hands on his chest. Her body pressed against his. The way she looked at him with such confidence the confidence of a born werewolf who belonged in his world. 

I slammed my palm against the tile. What did I expect? That an Alpha with Primal Wolf blood would actually want a human girl? Someone who couldn’t shift, couldn’t run with the pack, couldn’t give him wolf pups? 

I turned off the water and wrapped a towel around myself. Time to forget last night ever happened. 

In my bedroom, I pulled on clean clothes. 

My phone rang. I answered it without checking the caller ID.- 

Aria, I need to talk to you.” 

I froze. This wasn’t Gabriel checking on me. This was Jace. 

“Aria, I can explain about Scarlett. There’s nothing between us. She just…” 

I clenched my fists. “Alpha,” I said, “who you spend time with isn’t my business. You’re the Alpha. No one judges you. Be with any werewolf female you want. But I won’t be just another girl in your collection. I’ll come tomorrow to see if you still need help planning Aurora’s birthday.” 

“You’re not just another girl, Aria. Will you at least let me explain?* 

I swallowed hard. “Do you still want my help with the party planning?” 

The silence stretched for several heartbeats before he answered. 

“Yes. I want you there.” 

‘Fine. See you tomorrow.” 

I hung up the phone. Fresh tears stung my eyes. How had Jace gotten my number? I was just an outsider who happened to get along with his daughter. 

My phone rang. Eliana called to invite me to town for Aurora’s birthday shopping. Jaspar would join us while Eliana met village friends. We’d leave in thirty 

minutes. 

I hung up, feeling marginally better. A trip away from the pack compound was exactly what I needed. Distance from Jace and his confusing signals. Space to breathe without sensing his presence around every corner. 

I chose dark green leather pants and a cream linen top – sturdy enough for the mountain journey but still appropriate for the human town. I left my hair down, tucking Gabriel’s protection charm into my pocket along with what little cash I had saved. 

The mountain air felt crisp when I stepped outside. I walked the path to the main compound, rehearsing what I would say if I ran into Jace. 

Eliana and Jaspar waited by a black SUV, talking quietly. They looked up as I approached, both smiling in welcome. 

‘Perfect timing!” Eliana called, waving enthusiastically. 

Jaspar nodded respectfully. “Glad you could join us. I need to pick up some herbs in town.* 

1/2 

Chapter 30 

it should let Gabriel know I’m going, fold, glancing toward the pack home, 

As it summoned by my thoughts, the massive wooden doors swung open. Gabriel emergen, deep in conversation with Ince 

I forced my feet to move forward. Il Alpha, hi Gabriel. I’m heading to town with Eliana and Jaspar. Need to pick up a few things, to you need while I’m theret 

Gabriel shook his head. “We have everything we need here. Be careful in human territory.” 

I kept my gaze fixed on Gabriel, refusing to look at Jace though I could feel the weight of his stare, 

Scarlett approached, placing her hand possessively on Jace’s arm while smiling up at him. “Jace, do you have a minute? I wanted to discuss that pack matter we talked about.“. 

Chapter Comments 

Visitor 

Does she only own green pants and cream tops? can she just wear jeans? 

View All 2 Comments > 

8 

<SHARE 

2 

POST COMMENT 

2