The pack meeting felt different tonight. Aria sat in the back corner, trying to make herself invisible as normal. Her hands shook slightly as she gripped the wooden chair. Something was wrong or maybe something was finally right.
"We need stronger defenses on the eastern border," Rowan's voice cut through the room like a blade. His silver-gray eyes swept across the gathering wolves. "The rogues are getting bolder."
Lyra sat beside him, her red hair catching the firelight. She put her hand on Rowan's arm, claiming him in front of everyone. Aria's stomach twisted, but not with the normal jealousy. This time, something deeper stirred.
Heat.
Raw, strong heat that started in her chest and spread outward like wildfire.
"What about the Moonstone territory?" asked Beta Kane, his wrinkled face serious. "Marcus Thorn's pack is weak. They can't protect themselves."
