Chapter 31
A low growl numbled from Jace’s chest, but Scarlett didn’t remove her hand
“We should go, I said quickly, backing toward the SUV. We probably won the back for dinner. Eliana’s meeting friende from the village, spar and wit wait for her.”
Gabriel nodded. “If you get back before dark, come find me at the pack house. The mountain roads are dangerous after sunset
1 turned and walked away, ignoring the burning sensation in my chest. Jaspar held the car door open for me, and I slid into the backseat.
1 glimpsed lace in the side mirror as Eliana started the engine. His clenched jaw and rigid posture revealed something raw and desperate in his expression as he watched us leave. Then Scarlett distracted him, and the SUV rounded the bend, taking him out of view.
You okay? Jaspar asked quietly from the front seat.
I stared out the window at the passing trees. “Just tired.”
In my head, a single thought circled endlessly: What did I ever think could happen between an Alpha werewolf and a human girl? Some fairy tales weren’t meant for people like me.
JACE
Just my freaking luck. Of all the moments for Scarlett to pull this stunt.
One second I’m supervising training, the next she’s stumbling toward me with this fake twisted ankle act. What was I supposed to do? Let her face–plant? So I caught her. Big mistake.
The universe has perfect timing, doesn’t it? Right as my hands grabbed Scarlett’s waist, I looked up to see Aria staring directly at us from across the field. The warmth in her expression vanished instantly.
Goddammit. Of all the things that could go wrong today. Could this look any worse?
I tried approaching Aria after training, but she disappeared quickly. When I called, she hung up immediately. At least she promised to help with Aurora’s birthday party tomorrow. I’d get my chance to explain then.
After lunch, I met with Gabriel and Lucas. Both seemed aware that Arja was my true mate. I explained our developing connection and asked for their support in protecting her from pack gossip. Lucas left when the meeting concluded, leaving me alone with Gabriel.
“I want to know more about her,” I told him. “What makes her feel safe, what makes her retreat.”
Gabriel nodded thoughtfully. “Aria has always been guarded. She’s grown up knowing she’s different – a human among wolves.”
Our conversation ended abruptly outside where Aria stood by a black SUV with Eliana and Jaspar. She greeted Gabriel warmly but completely ignored me, announcing her shopping trip to town. While Eliana would meet friends, she’d be alone with Jaspar.
Phantom surged within me at this thought. A growl escaped as I watched her, her green leather pants and cream top reminding me of last night’s shower encounter. My breathing quickened.
Scarlett appeared beside me, implying we had plans together. I watched helplessly as Aria drove away, then stormed back inside, frustration boiling over.
“Alpha? Need some company?” Scarlett’s irritating voice followed me.
Something snapped. Phantom nearly took control.
“No, I don’t need your damn company. This is the last time I’m telling you, Scarlett I’m not interested. Stay away unless it concerns pack business. Understand? Cross that line again and I’ll banish you from Moon Shadow territory.”
I didn’t care who heard my outburst. Scarlett whimpered and hurried away, humiliated.
1/2
Chapter 31
“Get back to your duties, I ordered everyour watching before freading upstairs to my private training im I needed to refer il rage before Prenton something worse.
Later, calmer, I stared at my phone screen. I’d sent Aria a third message: “Just let me explain. Please give me that change: $ull for
