I had long ago lost count of how many times Kayden and I had succumbed to one another. It was as if neither of us possessed the willpower to keep our distance; a single look or a stray touch was all it took to ignite the fuse again. Our only reprieves were the brief moments needed to eat or sleep. But in those quiet windows between our lovemaking, we actually talked.
It was during those moments of stillness that the layers truly began to peel back. I was surprised to learn that Kayden is two hundred and eighty years old compared to my two hundred and eight years of life. I didn't know why I had assumed he was younger than my two hundred and eight years, but discovering he was the elder of us felt right; it explained the gravity he carried.
As he opened up, the conversation shifted to his family. It was clear from the way he spoke that he absolutely adored them. Amelia had mentioned his siblings before, but hearing Kayden describe them was different. His youngest brother, Asher, is the "baby" of the family at one hundred and eighty-four, yet he has already risen to become the Captain of the Guard for the royal family—the youngest in history to hold the rank. I could hear the raw pride vibrating in Kayden's voice as he bragged about him, his face lighting up in a way that I found incredibly sweet.
Then there are his sisters. Eliza, the elder at two hundred and sixty-eight, and Annalise, who is only two hundred. Seeing the fierce, intimidating Alpha melt into a doting brother while recounting their stories made my heart ache in the best way possible. It was a side of him the rest of the world likely never saw—a side he was only showing to me. While we were talking, we learned that a lot of our core values were identical and had so many things in common. And it's not just our values that are so similar, but also our tastes in aesthetics and food are very similar. I don't know how the fates decided who and why someone should be paired up with someone, but damn it's kind of scary how good they seem to be because it's getting harder to convince myself that I shouldn't be here.
Amelia's sharp voice finally broke through my haze, snapping me back to the present. I blinked, realizing where I was: Kayden's office. I was sitting on Kayden's lap, with Luca and Amelia across from us. If Amelia hadn't pounded on the door and shouted us awake from our post-mating exhaustion, Kayden and I would likely still be tangled in those sheets, oblivious to the world. I was stunned to realize an entire day had slipped through our fingers. We hadn't done a single productive thing, and though my body was humming with a lingering, deep-seated soreness, I knew the truth: if Amelia hadn't stayed outside that door until we emerged, we would have happily spent a second day exactly the same way.
Now, I sat in silence, watching the three of them discuss the grim aftermath of the rogue attack. They were deep in the logistics of the cleanup and the progress of the interrogations for the prisoners they'd managed to capture. I listened half-heartedly; they seemed to have everything under control, and I didn't feel the need to inject my voice into pack business. I was certain that if it weren't for Kayden's stubborn insistence that I be by his side, I wouldn't be here at all.
A yawn escaped me before I could stop it, the weight of exhaustion creeping around the edges of my mind. We had barely slept, our only rest being those brief bouts of unconsciousness that followed the intensity of our sessions. The moment I closed my mouth, I felt Kayden's hand move. He had practically dragged me onto his lap the moment we sat down, claiming my proximity as if it were his birthright.
I felt the mate bond ignite, sparks licking across my skin where his palm met my bare leg. The short black skirt I was wearing offered little resistance, its hem pushed back even further by his touch. Throughout the meeting, he had been idly toying with the silver buckles of my skirt's belt, his fingers tracing the metal as he listened to Luca speak. But apparently, he'd grown tired of the distraction. He slipped his hand beneath the fabric, his fingers beginning a steady, agonizingly slow trek upward. I stiffened, my breath hitching as I realized exactly where he was headed, all while he continued to nod at Amelia as if he were actually paying attention to the report on the rogue prisoners.
My breath hitched as a familiar, heavy warmth pooled in my lower belly. I could feel my body reacting to him instantly, an ache growing between my legs that defied my exhaustion. I snapped my legs shut, a silent command for him to stop, but his hand didn't waver. Desperate to maintain some shred of dignity, I reached down and caught his hand just as his fingers reached the lace edge of my underwear. Without hesitation, I gave the sensitive skin on the back of his hand a sharp, punishing pinch. It worked. Kayden sucked in a sharp, audible breath through his teeth, his hand retreating instantly from beneath my skirt.
My triumph was short-lived, however, as a muffled choking sound erupted from across the desk. I looked up to see Amelia with her hand over her mouth, her face turning a bright shade of red as she fought a losing battle against a fit of laughter. Clearly, Kayden wasn't as subtle as he thought he was—or perhaps the desk didn't offer as much coverage as we'd assumed. She had seen the whole struggle. I glanced back at Kayden and saw his eyebrow twitch in irritation.
Amelia gave a final, pointed cough, clearing her throat in a desperate attempt to mask the fact that she'd just been caught laughing at the Alpha's expense. Recomposing herself, she leaned back. "Well, I think that covers the situation with the rogues—for now, anyway."
Kayden nodded, his professional mask sliding back into place. "Good. I'm glad you and Luca have been able to keep things moving so well in my absence." Amelia's smug smile returned as she arched an eyebrow. "Oh, please. We both know we could handle your workload with our eyes closed. We practically wouldn't even notice if you vanished as Alpha altogether." Kayden countered with an amused smirk. "Oh, really? Then why were you pounding on my door earlier, demanding my presence for all of this?"
She shrugged, her expression deceptively casual. "Just because we could doesn't mean I want the headache that comes with it. You still have to sign off on the paperwork." Kayden chuckled softly, shaking his head. "Sure, Amelia. Let's go with that." She rolled her eyes, waving a hand dismissively as if she didn't have time for his delusions. Then, in typical Amelia fashion, she pivoted instantly.
She ignored Kayden entirely, turning her full attention to me. "I'm sorry, Artemis, but with this rogue mess, my schedule is packed. I don't think I'll be able to go with you to Ms. Chambers' place for dinner tonight." I felt my eyebrows knit together in genuine confusion. "Who?" The second the word left my mouth, Amelia's expression froze. She looked confused for a heartbeat before realization dawned on her, followed immediately by a look of pure mischief. She burst into a fit of laughter, clearly finding her own slip-up—and my ignorance—hilarious.
Once her laughter subsided, Amelia caught her breath and smiled. "Sorry, my mistake. I forgot we never properly introduced her. Ms. Chambers is Hope's mother—Stella Chambers." The mention of the name acted like a key in a lock. I immediately remembered the bakery and my promise to visit them for dinner exactly a week from that day. The realization hit me like a bolt of lightning. Had it only been a week?
I couldn't believe it. Between the rogue attacks, the revelations of the Shadow Knights, and the soul-shattering intensity of the bond, it felt as though a lifetime had passed. It was staggering to realize that in just seven days, I had gone from wanting to flee this pack to being unable to imagine a future without Kayden. The man I had nearly left forever was now the very center of my world. From my lap, I could feel Kayden watching me. I knew my face was likely a whirlwind of shifting emotions as I processed the timeline. He looked as though he would give anything to reach into my mind and read every thought flickering across my gaze.
Before he could speak, Amelia jumped back in. "Anyway, since I'm buried under this rogue business, I can't go with you. But since you don't know the layout of the pack lands yet, I was going to have Kayden guide you to Stella's place." The moment the suggestion left her mouth, I felt my internal walls snap back into place. My gaze shifted sharply from Amelia to Kayden and back again. I wiped all emotion from my features, leaving my face a cool, expressionless mask. I could see Kayden tense slightly beside me; I was being calculating now, and I knew he couldn't read me in the slightest.
Artemis turned her gaze back to Amelia, her voice cool and measured. "I don't know. If you are this busy because of the attack, who's to say Stella isn't in the same position? I wouldn't want to impose or make her feel obligated to keep a promise made under different circumstances." Amelia shook her head immediately. "No, it's all fine. Stella called me earlier to confirm. She's nearly finished with the preparations. It was actually right after her call that I came to... wake you both up." I saw the flash of realization in Artemis's eyes. "That's why you insisted we both be here," she said. It wasn't a question.
Amelia nodded. "Partly. But I also genuinely wanted your perspective. You were the key player during that attack, and the only one who figured out where the rogues were hiding. It's only natural for you to be included—especially since you are the rightful Luna of this pack." The word Luna hung in the air like a physical weight. I felt Artemis stiffen instantly on my lap. The reaction sent a jolt of pure, cold fear through me. My heart clenched as the old insecurity roared back to life—the terrifying thought that she was still looking for a reason to leave me. My mind began to whirl with desperate, darker possibilities. If she tried to go, I'd keep her tied to my bed; I'd keep her so exhausted and consumed by me that she wouldn't have the strength to even think about leaving.
Amelia, seemingly sensing the sudden, sharp spike in tension, quickly pivoted. "Anyway," she added, her tone breezy but urgent, "since there's no reason to worry about the plans changing, you two should start heading over. Unless, of course, you want to eat a cold dinner."
As Amelia spoke, she rose from her seat with fluid grace. By the time she finished her sentence, she was standing directly behind my chair. She didn't wait for an invitation; she reached down, caught Artemis by the arm, and helped her to her feet, effectively plucking her off my lap. Once Artemis was standing, Amelia looped her arm through hers, anchoring them together. "Don't worry," she chirped, already steering her toward the door. "You are going to love her cooking. That woman doesn't just know her way around a bakery; her meals are legendary. She's easily the best cook in the entire pack—heaven knows I could never dream of competing with her."
Amelia's chatter was a whirlwind, designed to sweep Artemis out of the office and away from the suffocating atmosphere of pack politics. She led her down the staircase with the confidence of someone who knew exactly what she was doing. I sat there for a heartbeat, my lap suddenly cold and empty, before I exchanged a look with Luca. We both stood and followed them, trailing behind the two women as they headed toward the front door and the afternoon sun.
Once we reached the front door, Amelia reached into the cubby and pulled out a pair of black ankle boots with elegant gold buckles, handing them to Artemis before tossing me my own shoes. As soon as we were ready, she pulled Artemis into a quick, impulsive hug. When they pulled apart, Amelia reached for the handle and swung the door open, practically herding Artemis out into the sunlight. She intended it to be a playful nudge, but Amelia underestimated her own strength. The force sent Artemis stumbling over the doorframe.
My instincts screamed before she even hit the ground. I surged forward, my hand snapping out to catch her arm and haul her back against my chest. "Ari! Are you alright?" Our eyes met, and she gave me a reassuring smile, nodding softly. "Yes, I'm fine." She took a moment to steady herself before gently disengaging from my grip, though she kept that same small smile on her face. "Thank you for the save."
Before I could respond, a loud, exaggerated "Awww!" echoed from the doorway. We both turned to find Amelia and Luca standing side-by-side. Luca had his arm wrapped firmly around her waist, pulling her into his side, but his expression was much more composed than Amelia's. She was practically beaming. "You gave her a nickname! How cute. I absolutely love it," she gushed. I felt Artemis stiffen beside me. She immediately dropped her gaze to the floor, her sudden discomfort radiating through the bond. I couldn't help but roll my eyes at her; she had a talent for turning a private moment into a public spectacle.
I looked between Kayden and Amelia, sensing that he was about to say something. I cut off whatever he was going to say by clearing my throat, drawing everyone's attention. "Actually," I said, my voice steady despite the eyes on me, "he didn't give me that nickname. My mother did." Amelia's eyes widened, and she nodded as if that made far more sense. "Oh! Well, if that's the case... would it be alright if I called you Ari, too?"
The question caught me off guard. For a moment, I was stunned into silence, my chest tightening with a strange mix of vulnerability and warmth. I nodded slowly. "Sure," I said, my voice a bit cautious. "I don't see why not." Amelia's face lit up as if she'd just won the lottery. "Great! Now, don't you two worry about a thing. Luca and I have everything under control here. You just go, have fun, and enjoy yourselves." She paused, her hand on the doorframe, a mischievous glint in her eyes. "Oh, and Kayden? Just thought you should know—your family has officially returned from their little vacation."
Before either of us could utter a word of protest or ask for details, she slammed the door shut, cutting us off. Kayden and I stood there in the sudden silence of the porch, staring at the wood of the door with identical looks of shock and confusion. We turned to one another, mouths opening to speak, when the door swung wide again. Amelia stood there, holding two heavy jackets. "I nearly forgot your coats," she said, thrusting them toward Kayden. "It's been getting colder lately. I know our body temperatures regulate better than a human's, but it's still better to be safe than sorry."
As Amelia spoke, I stepped in to help Ari into her tan trench coat. The coat went over her white-striped, long-sleeved shirt, which featured a black corset top that hugged her figure perfectly. The sleeves were cuffed neatly at her wrists, and the entire ensemble managed to look both professionally sharp and incredibly alluring. Paired with the black pencil skirt—the one with the daring slit held together by silver buckles—she looked breathtaking. Even the classic lines of the trench coat only seemed to enhance her natural elegance.
Amelia didn't wait for a thank you. She slammed the door in our faces again the moment she finished her lecture. Artemis turned to me, a single eyebrow arched in a silent question about my friend's erratic behavior. I just sighed and shrugged into my own jacket—a slim-fitted black leather piece. I watched as Ari pulled the sash of her trench coat tight, knotting it at her waist. I felt her gaze linger on me, tracing the lines of my open jacket, but she didn't say a word, only offering a knowing look.
Once we were both ready, I descended the three steps of the porch and turned back to my mate. I extended my hand, palm up, a silent invitation. "Shall we?" She nodded, her fingers slipping into mine as she stepped down to join me. The moment our skin met, I intertwined our fingers, locking us together. With a deep breath of the crisp evening air, I began leading her away from the house and toward the heart of the village to meet the Chambers family.
The walk to the house was quiet, the weight of our joined hands the only conversation we needed. However, the moment we reached the porch, Ari slipped her hand from mine. I reached out and knocked, my hand falling back to my side just as the door swung open. Stella stood there, her face lit up with a cheerful, welcoming smile. "Alpha Kayden and our beautiful Luna! It's lovely to see you both. Thank you for coming. Please, come in." I watched as Ari's professional mask melted into a warm, genuine smile. She stepped up the stairs, and Stella immediately pulled her into a motherly embrace before stepping aside to usher her into the warmth of the house.
Assuming my job was done, I turned to head back into the night. I had only walked a single step when Stella's voice stopped me cold. "Alpha? What on earth are you doing? Please, come inside." I turned back, shaking my head respectfully. "No, Stella, I wouldn't want to intrude. I was only here to ensure Ari found her way safely." Stella's eyes narrowed, her lips pursing as her hands moved to her hips in a classic pose of maternal authority. She let out a long, exasperated sigh. "Now, Alpha, I know we didn't originally plan this evening with you in mind, but Amelia—Ms. Calahan—informed me that she's far too busy to join us tonight." She stepped closer, her tone brooking no argument. "Since she's handling the majority of the work so that you can have a free evening, you're going to take her place. I won't have all the extra food I prepared going to waste. Now, inside. Both of you."
A wave of clarity washed over me. I finally understood why Amelia had made such a production out of not needing me in the office and why she'd insisted on shouldering the entire workload. She'd been clearing my schedule so I'd have no excuse to refuse this invitation. In fact, a nagging feeling told me that even if the rogue attack hadn't happened, this had been her plan all along: to trap the two of us in a room where we had to act like a normal couple, giving me every possible advantage to convince Artemis to stay.
I looked at my mate. She was watching me with curious, searching eyes. In that moment, I knew I would take every single second, every stolen glance, and every quiet dinner to prove to her that her life belonged with mine. I didn't take my eyes off her even as I stepped over the threshold into the house. From the corner of my eye, I caught Stella's expression—an amused, knowing smile that confirmed my suspicions. I couldn't even bring myself to be annoyed. If this worked, I'd have to find a way to thank them both.
Once we were safely inside, Stella closed the door and moved in front of us. She looked us up and down, her eyes twinkling. "Oh dear, where are my manners? Please, let me take your coats." She held out her hand, and I watched Ari begin to untie the sash of her trench coat. The second she did, I stepped behind her, my hands finding her shoulders to help her slide out of the fabric. She glanced back and smiled up at me—a small, intimate gesture that made my heart hammer against my ribs. Once she had shrugged out of the coat, I handed it to Stella along with my leather jacket. Stella offered a grateful smile and turned to hang them on the coatrack tucked behind the door.
I watched as Kayden shook his head in silent resignation, and Stella simply shrugged, her eyes sparkling as she turned to lead the way further into the house. As I followed, I couldn't help but steal another look at Kayden. He looked undeniably attractive in the slim-fitted leather jacket; the cut did nothing to hide the powerful, corded muscles of his arms. Because he'd left it unzipped, I could see his navy-blue silk shirt beneath. The first few buttons were undone, revealing a hint of his chest and a black arrowhead necklace that rested against his tan skin. There was something rugged yet refined about him that made my pulse quicken.
As we moved through the hallway, Kayden placed the palm of his hand against the small of my back. It was a simple, grounding gesture meant to guide me, but the heat of his touch seeped through my layers instantly. A muted version of those familiar mate-bond sparks danced across my skin where his hand rested. The sensation sent a sudden shiver racing up my spine, catching my breath in my throat. I forced myself to keep my composure, swallowing hard as I focused on the doorway ahead. The moment Stella opened the door to the dining area, the air changed. My nose was instantly filled with the most heavenly, mouth-watering scents—savory herbs, slow-roasted meat, and something sweet that reminded me of the bakery.
As I scanned the room, I was struck by the sight. It looked like the picture-perfect definition of a classic Thanksgiving feast. There was so much food crowded onto the table that my eyes widened in disbelief. "Is there some kind of holiday today that I didn't know about?" I asked, my voice trailing off as I took in the spread. "There's no way all of this is just for us." Stella turned to me with a shy, nervous smile. "Well, no holiday, exactly. But honestly, I wasn't sure what you liked, so I decided to make a little bit of everything. Besides," she added, her voice softening, "it's really a small thing when you take into account how many lives you saved on that battlefield—including my own. This is just my way of showing you how much I appreciate that."
I shook my head, feeling a flush of heat in my cheeks. "That isn't necessary, Stella. I only did what anyone would have done if they had the chance." She stepped forward until she was standing directly in front of me, shaking her head firmly. "No. Not many people could have done what you did. If it weren't for you, I wouldn't be standing here right now. I know you didn't do it to be thanked, but this is the only way I know how to show it. So please... just let me do this." I let out a long sigh, realizing I was fighting a losing battle. "Okay. It's not like I could say no after that, anyway." Her smile widened, and she reached out to clasp my hands in hers. Her touch was warm and sincere. "We are so lucky you came here, and even luckier that you are meant to be our true Luna. Thank you for saving me and the others, even if some of the pack haven't realized what they owe you yet. Because of you, I get to watch Hope grow up."
Looking into her eyes, a memory from the battlefield suddenly snapped into focus. I remembered a wolf with that exact shade of forest green, staring at me in a mixture of awe and shock as I stepped between her and a killing blow. The intensity of that gaze had stuck in the back of my mind, and looking at Stella now, I realized it was her. I opened my mouth to tell her—to acknowledge that shared moment of survival—but the door on the far side of the dining room swung open.
Hope burst into the room. She was wearing a blue polka-dotted apron with massive ruffles that was clearly several sizes too large for her small frame, making her look absolutely adorable. Her hair was gathered into a messy little bun on top of her head, and a stray smudge of flour dusted her cheek. The moment our eyes met, her face lit up like a Christmas tree. "Atty!" she squealed, barreling toward me with a speed that would have knocked over anyone else.
She didn't stop; she leaped. I caught her easily, my instincts taking over as I tucked her small body against my chest. She wrapped her legs around my waist and squeezed my neck in a hug so tight it was nearly suffocating. When she finally pulled back, I shifted her onto my hip to hold her more comfortably. "Atty! You're finally here!" she shouted, her grin wide enough to show off her missing teeth. "I've missed you so much! Why didn't you come sooner?" I couldn't help but chuckle at the rapid-fire interrogation. Behind me, I could feel the warmth of Kayden's amused smile, and Stella watched us with a look of such pure, maternal love that it made my heart ache.
Stella reached for her daughter, her arms extended. "Come now, Hope, let's give our guests a moment to settle in and find their seats." Hope pouted, but she went to her mother willingly. "Let's get you cleaned up while I pull the pies out of the oven," Stella added, before glancing back at us. "Please, take a seat. We'll be back in just a moment." As they headed back through the door, Hope twisted around in her mother's grip and shouted a final decree: "I claim the seat next to Atty!"
The door swung shut behind them, and Kayden and I both burst into laughter. The sound felt light and easy—a far cry from the heavy silence of the office. As we walked toward the table, Kayden leaned in, his voice dropping into a playful, mock-serious tone. "Looks like I have some unexpected competition for your attention, my dear Atty." I rolled my eyes, scoffing at his terrible joke. "Don't be jealous of a six-year-old." I reached for a chair, but Kayden was already behind me. He eased the chair out and helped me push it in once I was seated. Before he took his own spot, he leaned down and pressed a tender kiss to the top of my head.
I looked up at him, and for a quiet second, we simply shared a small, private smile. The peace lasted exactly until the door opened again. Stella and Hope emerged hand-in-hand, Hope's face now scrubbed clean of flour. The moment she let go of her mother, she made a beeline for me. Her face was beaming until she realized that Kayden was already occupying the seat right beside mine. Her smile vanished, replaced by an indignant frown. She marched up to him, pointed at his chair, and stomped her foot.
"I claimed this seat! This is my seat." Kayden arched an eyebrow, a teasing smirk tugging at his lips. "You do realize that I am your Alpha, little one?" Hope didn't blink. She crossed her arms over her chest and rolled her eyes with enough sass to rival Amelia. "I know that. But you get to see her every day! It's only right that you give this seat to me. Besides," she added, hitting him with a logic he clearly wasn't prepared for, "you do realize that you are a guest in our house, right?"
I watched as an amused smile stretched across Kayden's lips, contrasting sharply with the look of pure horror on Stella's face. Before she could find the breath to reprimand her daughter for such bold behavior, Kayden spoke. "Touché," he said, his voice brimming with laughter. "Very well. I shall vacate this seat for now. But you'd better make sure you treat my mate with the utmost respect and ensure she doesn't get bored." Hope rolled her eyes as if that were the most obvious thing in the world. "Of course I will."
Kayden chuckled as he stood. He reached down, hooking his hands under Hope's arms and hoisting the small child into the air. He settled her gently into the chair he had just vacated, tucking her in toward the table. The moment she was situated, she beamed up at him and chirped a quick thank-you. With a wink at me, Kayden walked around the table and claimed the seat next to Stella's empty place. Stella watched the interaction with a soft, loving smile playing on her lips, her tension finally melting away. The moment Kayden was seated, she seemed to snap out of her daze.
"Can I get either of you a drink?" she asked, looking between us. "I have a variety of wines, spirits, or anything else you might prefer."
"I want milk!" Hope piped up cheerfully. Stella offered her daughter a quick, indulgent smile before turning back to us. "I'll take a whiskey, if you have it," Kayden said. Stella nodded and turned her expectant gaze toward me. I felt a surge of playfulness and offered her a small smile. "Surprise me." Both Kayden and Stella looked surprised by the request, but Stella's expression quickly shifted into a pleased, knowing grin. "I think I know just the thing," she said, before excusing herself back into the kitchen.
Stella returned a few minutes later, delivering Hope's milk and Kayden's whiskey before vanishing once more. She reappeared a moment later, balancing two elegant wine glasses and a dark, dusty bottle of wine. "This," she said, her voice dropping into a conspiratorial, slightly cocky tone, "is one of the finest vintages available. Even the royal family has a hard time getting their hands on these bottles. Lucky for me, I happen to be close friends with the owner of the winery." I chuckled at her boastful wink while Kayden just shook his head, a fond smirk on his face.
She poured a generous glass for each of us, watching me with bated breath as I took the first sip. When I nodded in genuine approval, she beamed with pride. With the drinks settled, Stella picked up the heavy carving knives and stood before the massive, golden-brown turkey. "Who's ready for some turkey?" Hope nodded with enough enthusiasm to nearly knock her milk over, and I followed suit. But just before Stella's blades could touch the meat, Kayden stood up. He reached out, gently placing his hand over hers to stop her.
"Please," he said softly, a respectful request in his eyes. "Allow me." Stella looked surprised by his quiet interference, her eyes wide as she processed the Alpha offering to serve her in her own home. After a heartbeat, she smiled and stepped aside, handing him the knives. As Kayden began to expertly carve the bird, the atmosphere in the room shifted into something truly special. That was how our night began—a light-hearted, joyful evening that made the darkness of the previous week feel like nothing more than a fading shadow.
*
The night was a blur of genuine warmth and easy laughter. Hope was the life of the party, chattering away and insisting that I be the one to help her with everything. She even tried to pull the old trick of pretending she couldn't feed herself, casting me wide, innocent eyes in hopes that I'd spoon-feed her, until Stella finally stepped in with a playful scold. As the meal concluded and the night began to wind down, Hope made one final demand: she wanted to sit on my lap. I pulled her up, and it wasn't long before her energetic chatter died down. She tucked her head into the crook of my neck, her breathing slowing into the deep, rhythmic pace of sleep.
I sat there, listening to the soft murmur of Kayden and Stella's conversation, feeling the small, warm weight of the girl against my heart. It was so peaceful I almost didn't notice Stella glance down at her watch. Her eyes suddenly went wide. "Oh dear! Where did the time go?" she whispered, her voice tinged with shock. She stood up, looking at us both with an apologetic but happy smile. "As much as I hate for tonight to end, it is way past Hope's bedtime. I'm afraid I have to put an end to this lovely evening." Kayden stood as well, moving to stand behind me as Stella approached. She reached out, her hands open to take Hope from my arms, but just before her fingers brushed her daughter's sweater, she suddenly paused. She froze mid-motion, her eyes fixed on the way Hope was clinging to my shirt even in her sleep. A strange, complex emotion flickered across Stella's face—a mixture of surprise, hesitation, and something that looked a lot like profound realization.
Stella suddenly straightened her back, pulling her hands away. She looked at Kayden for a brief second before turning her full attention to me. The warmth was still in her eyes, but it was now underscored by a heavy, desperate sincerity. "I know the last time we spoke, you were considering leaving this pack behind," she said, her voice barely above a whisper so as not to wake the sleeping child in my arms. "I truly hope this week has helped convince you to give Kayden—and all of us—another chance. For Hope's sake, and for the sake of the pack, I pray you've decided to stay." She paused, her gaze dropping to her daughter's peaceful face before locking back onto mine. "But if you haven't... I know this is a selfish request, but could you at least wait one more day before you go? Hope and several of the other children would want the chance to say goodbye properly."
I felt Kayden stiffen behind me, his breath hitching as the reality of my potential departure was dragged back into the light. "Take it from someone who has lost both her children and her mate all around the same time," Stella continued, her voice trembling slightly. "I would give up everything I own just to have them back in my life for a single hour. I never could have imagined a life without them. I think, after tonight... you might finally understand what I'm talking about." The silence that followed was deafening. The weight of the sleeping girl on my lap suddenly felt like an anchor—not one that held me down, but one that kept me from drifting away into the cold.
I watched as Ari's eyes widened, her gaze darting from Stella to the sleeping child in her arms, and finally up to me. The second our eyes met, my heart clenched so violently I felt the air leave my lungs. I was suffocating under the weight of her silence. "Kayden..." she whispered. She paused, her expression unreadable as she searched for the words that would either save me or destroy me.
Panic flared in my chest. Before she could say another word, I dropped to my knees beside her chair. The sudden movement caught her by surprise, her breath catching as she looked down at me. "I know I messed up in the beginning," I started, my voice raw and trembling. "I can't promise that I'll never make another mistake, but I swear on my soul that I will do everything in my power to never treat you like that again. I know it's only been a week, but I can't imagine my life without you anymore. I don't want to."
I reached out, my hands hovering near hers, desperate for a connection. "I don't know exactly when it happened, but I have fallen madly in love with you. I will do whatever it takes to keep you by my side. You make me a better man. You make me a better Alpha. I know it's selfish to ask after everything I put you through, but please... don't leave me. My pack and I need you more than we ever thought possible." The tears I had been fighting finally welled in my eyes, blurring my vision. I couldn't bear to see her face if she was about to say goodbye. I bowed my head, looking down at the floor as I let out the truth I had been carrying. "I love you, Artemis Silverfang. So please... don't leave me."
I watched the light catch the unshed tears in Kayden's eyes as he stared at the floor, his shoulders tense as he waited for my blow. My heart didn't just flutter; it soared. A slow, genuine smile spread across my lips as I reached out with my free hand—the one not supporting Hope's sleeping weight—and placed it firmly on his shoulder. His head jerked up instantly. The raw mix of terror and desperate hope in his gaze was almost enough to make me cry myself.
I sighed softly and moved my hand from his shoulder to cup his cheek, my thumb brushing over his skin. "Kayden," I whispered, "you don't have to plead with me to stay anymore." He searched my face, his breath hitched in his throat. "I've known since the battle," I continued, my voice steady. "The moment I saw that rogue leader about to strike you... I felt a fear I've never known before. It was a bone-deep realization that I couldn't imagine a world where you didn't exist. I realized then that I had fallen for you—faults and all." Pure, unadulterated joy transformed his face, erasing the lines of worry.
"I don't know when the shift happened exactly," I said, leaning closer so only he could hear the depth of my conviction. "But I love you, Kayden. And I have no intention of leaving you—unless you make me." He let out a rough, shaky snort, his voice dropping into a possessive, husky growl. "Yeah, that's never going to happen. You'd have to kill me before I'd let you go, or let anyone take you from me." I chuckled, the sound bright and clear. He leaned in, his lips pressing firmly against mine in a kiss that tasted of relief and promises. But before the kiss could deepen, a small, groggy voice drifted up from my lap. "Yay... so Atty isn't leaving us after all?" We pulled apart, looking down to find Hope sleepily rubbing her eyes. She looked between the two of us with a lopsided, triumphant grin, her small hand clutching my shirt as she realized her wish had come true.
We both looked down at her sleepy, expectant face, and Kayden reached out, ruffling her hair with a tenderness that made my heart ache. "That's right, kiddo," he said, his voice thick with pride. "She's not going anywhere. She's going to be mine—and this pack's one and only Luna." Hope nodded her tiny head, a satisfied smile playing on her lips. But as her eyelids began to flutter shut again, Stella stepped in. She moved beside Kayden, her hands extended. "Come now, little one. It's well past time for bed. Say your goodbyes."
The sound of her mother's voice gave Hope one last burst of energy. She sat up and threw her arms around my neck, squeezing me tight in a silent promise to see me tomorrow. Then, she turned to Kayden. He chuckled and opened his arms, catching her as she practically leaped into his embrace. "Goodnight, Alpha Kayden," she whispered into his ear. He smiled, holding her small form against his chest for a long moment before standing back up. Once he was on his feet, he gently transferred the drowsy child into Stella's waiting arms. Stella offered him a quiet look of gratitude; the bond between an Alpha and the children of his pack was something sacred, and seeing it in action clearly moved her.
The second Hope was settled against her mother's shoulder, and she went limp, her eyes closing as if she had used the very last of her strength to stay awake for the "official" announcement. "Thank you both again for joining us tonight," Stella said, her voice a hushed whisper to avoid waking the now-unconscious girl. "I'd normally be a more gracious host and show you to the door, but I must get this little one into bed. I know Kayden will take good care of you, so I'll say goodnight for now. I'll see you both very soon."
As Stella spoke, Kayden reached for my hands. The moment I gripped them, he pulled me effortlessly to my feet. I turned back to Stella, my eyebrows knitting together in concern. "After everything you've done for us tonight, the least we can do is help you clean up." Stella chuckled, shaking her head as she adjusted the sleeping weight of Hope. "That's sweet, Ari, but it's not necessary. I plan on sending the leftovers to the warriors guarding the borders. Once I send out the text, a few of them will be over to help transport the food—they can help me with the dishes as 'payment.' So, don't worry about it. Just go and enjoy the rest of your night together." Before either of us could protest, she turned and disappeared toward the stairs, clearly ending the conversation.
I looked at Kayden, who simply shrugged with a knowing smirk. He squeezed my hand gently. "Come on. Let's go then." I glanced one last time at the door where Stella had vanished, letting out a soft sigh before following him back to the front hallway. When we reached the coatrack, Kayden didn't let me reach for my own things. He grabbed my tan trench coat and held it open, assisting me as I slid my arms into the sleeves. "Does she always feed the other warriors like that?" I asked, turning back to face him as I adjusted my collar. Kayden pulled on his leather jacket, a thoughtful expression crossing his face. "She does it every now and then, I guess."
"How come?" I asked, my curiosity piqued by the shift in his tone. Kayden opened the front door, the cool night air rushing in to meet us. "I can't say for sure," he said, stepping aside and gesturing for me to head out first. "But if I had to guess, I'd say she probably started doing it out of guilt." I stepped onto the porch and turned back to look at him as he locked the door. "Why would she feel guilty?"
"She feels bad for leaving the guard," he explained, his expression hardening slightly as he joined me on the steps. When he saw my confusion, he added, "She used to be a warrior herself, Ari. Long before she was a baker, she was one of us—until her husband and son died." He reached out and took my hand, his grip firm and grounding as he began leading us away from the house and into the quiet of the night. "Her husband and son were pack warriors, too. Some of the finest we've ever had. Stella herself was one of the best trainers I've ever seen." He looked down at me, a small, fleeting smirk touching his lips. "Well... besides you, of course."
I rolled my eyes at the blatant flattery, but my mind stayed on Stella. "How did they die?" Kayden stopped for a moment, closing his eyes and taking a deep, heavy breath. The sigh that followed was thick with a sadness that seemed to vibrate in the air between us. When he opened his eyes, the torment there was unmistakable—it was the look of a leader who still felt the weight of every life lost under his watch. "Both of them were dispatched on a mission for the Royal Family," he said quietly. "On their way back, they were ambushed. They fought well, but they didn't make it. Neither of them."
A heavy, suffocating silence filled the air between us. I felt a knot tighten in the pit of my stomach as the full weight of Stella's tragedy sank in. "That's beyond awful," I whispered. "I can't even begin to imagine losing both a mate and a child on the same day. It's a wonder she survived it at all." Kayden squeezed my hand, his knuckles white. "I can still hear her," he said, his voice dropping to a haunted hollow. "The screams and the wails when the news reached the pack house... it isn't a sound I'll forget as long as I live. Their family was loved by everyone. Losing them felt like losing a piece of our foundation."
I squeezed his hand back, a silent offer of support. When he looked down at me, I gave him a small, reassuring smile, trying to pull him back from the dark memory. He returned the pressure of my hand, but his gaze remained distant. We walked in silence for a few more paces, the only sound the rhythmic crunch of our boots on the path. Finally, he sighed and continued, "Honestly, for a long time, I was sure we'd lost her, too." I peered up at him, noting the thoughtful, pained expression on his face. "After the news, she simply... withdrew," he explained. "She pulled away from everyone and everything. It was obvious she was spiraling into a depression so deep that nothing we did could reach her. No words, no comfort, no pack rituals. I had people watching her around the clock." He swallowed hard, his jaw tight. "I lived in constant fear that the next message I'd receive was that she had taken her own life."
My breath hitched. I couldn't reconcile the kind, vibrant woman who had just hosted us with someone who had been standing on the edge of such a dark abyss. "What changed?" I asked softly. "What brought her back?" The dark cloud over Kayden's expression vanished, replaced instantly by a warm, genuine smile. "Everything changed the day she brought Hope home." I felt a matching smile spread across my own face at the mention of the little girl. "I can see why. Hope has a way of lighting up a room just by existing."
"She gave Stella a reason to live again," Kayden nodded. "And for that, the entire pack will be forever grateful. They are two of the most important members of this family, and I wouldn't trade them for anything." He adjusted his grip on my hand as we continued walking. "Shortly after she brought Hope back, she officially resigned from the guard to focus on raising her. Once Hope was a bit older, that's when Stella opened the bakery."
"Is that why you think she feels guilty?" I asked, piecing it together. "Because she's a warrior who chose the kitchen over the front lines?"
"Exactly," Kayden said. "Even though she has absolutely nothing to worry about. No one in this pack looks down on her for that choice—they just want her to be happy."
I looked up at the vast, star-filled sky, the crisp air cooling my skin. "And her warrior past is why she was on the battlefield the other day," I mused. Kayden sighed, the weight of leadership returning to his shoulders. "When we're under attack, everyone capable of holding a blade or shifting is either on the field or protecting those who aren't. Stella might have resigned her rank, but she never lost her instinct to protect."
The silence that followed was comfortable, a soft blanket over the heavy revelations of the night. As we walked, I realized we weren't actually heading back toward the pack house. We were wandering aimlessly, simply enjoying the cool breeze and the rhythmic crunch of fallen leaves beneath our boots. The moon hung high and bright, casting a silver glow over the quiet streets and the houses we passed. I was just about to find my voice again when a sharp, unfamiliar shout cut through the stillness. "Kayden? Kayden, is that you?!"
I looked toward a house just a few yards ahead. A petite woman stood by a mailbox, squinting into the moonlight. Beside me, Kayden went rigid. His hand tightened slightly on mine, and a low, whispered word escaped his lips. "Shit." My eyebrows shot up in shock. I had seen Kayden face down a rogue army without flinching, but right now, he looked like he wanted the ground to swallow him whole. "What's wrong?" I whispered.
He ran a frustrated hand through his hair, his professional Alpha mask completely shattered. "I didn't mean to walk this way. I was just... I was distracted. I didn't want the night to end yet." The woman took a few quick steps toward us, her face lighting up as she confirmed his identity. "Who is she?" I asked, though I was already beginning to suspect the answer. Before he could respond, the woman's voice rang out again, filled with maternal authority and joy. "It is you, Kayden! Well, don't just stand there in the dark. Come here and give your mother a hug!"
I felt my eyebrows climb toward my hairline in utter shock. Watching Kayden's shoulders sag in total defeat as he let out a long, weary sigh was a sight I never expected to see. I didn't even realize I had let go of his hand until he started walking toward the woman, his back slightly hunched like a teenager caught out past curfew. He reached her and wrapped his arms around the petite woman, his massive frame practically engulfing her. Even without meaning to, he lifted her five-foot-four frame clean off the ground in a single hug.
Even in the moonlit shadows, her beauty was striking. She had a deep, vibrant shade of red hair gathered into a loose but somehow perfect bun. Her eyes—a laughing forest green—glowed brightly against the darkness. With high cheekbones, a healthy golden tan, and a perfect hourglass figure, she looked like someone people would kill to resemble. Knowing that Kayden and his siblings were nearly two hundred years old, I knew their mother had to be centuries beyond that, but you would never guess it by looking at her. She didn't appear a day over thirty. To a human, the idea of a woman that young having three grown sons who were all over a century old would sound like madness, but for those of us born as shifters, it was simply our reality. No one even batted an eye at the gift of such slow aging.
As she pulled back from the hug, her sharp, green eyes immediately bypassed her son and locked onto me. I felt a sudden jolt of nerves. This wasn't just a pack member—this was the woman who had raised the man who just professed his love for me just moments ago. Her eyes widened slightly, sweeping over me from head to toe. She took a deliberate step back from her son, her head tilting as she looked between us. She seemed to be calculating the exact nature of the energy between us, reading the air as if the mate bond were written in the moonlight.
Then, a warm, knowing smile broke across her face. She took a step toward me, her movements graceful and sure. "I'm sorry, where are my manners?" she said, her voice rich and welcoming. "I'm Lydia Silvermoon. And, as you've clearly guessed, I am Kayden's mother." As she came to a stop in front of me, she extended her hand. The movement finally snapped me out of my dazed state. I quickly reached out, gripping her hand in mine for a firm, respectful handshake. "Artemis Silverfang," I replied, my voice steadying as I met her gaze.
The moment I released Lydia's hand, I felt Kayden's arm snake firmly around my waist. He pulled me flush against his side, his posture protective and proud. "She is also my mate," he announced. Lydia's eyebrows shot up in genuine surprise, but the shock was instantly replaced by a look of pure, radiant joy. "You finally found her!" she cried. She rushed at Kayden again, wrapping her arms around him and squeezing him with a burst of excited energy. "Oh, Kayden, I'm so happy for you!"
She didn't give him much time to respond before she let go and immediately pulled me into a warm, fragrant hug. "Welcome to the family, my dear," she whispered. "We are so lucky to have you. Truly lucky." She pulled back just far enough to look up at me, her smile never wavering. "You are stunning, Artemis, dear. I have never met anyone who looked so... mythical. Your hair looks as if it's reflecting the moonlight itself, and those eyes—I've never seen a blue so piercing."
I caught Kayden nodding along beside her, his expression making it clear he couldn't agree more with his mother's assessment. The sound of a door creaking open drew all of our attention toward the house. A man stepped out onto the porch, and even from a distance, the resemblance was undeniable. He was a slightly older, more seasoned version of Kayden, possessing the same commanding presence. He raised an eyebrow at the scene on the sidewalk. "Lydia, dear? What are you doing over there?" Lydia's eyes widened, and she laughed. "I'll be right there, honey!" The man shook his head, an amused smile tugging at his lips, but he didn't head back inside. Instead, he crossed his arms and leaned against the doorframe, waiting for his wife. He never took his eyes off her, and the look of sheer, unadulterated love on his face was enough to make my heart ache. It was a mirror of the way Kayden looked at me when he thought I wasn't watching.
Before I could react, Lydia spun back toward us and snatched my hand. Her grip was surprisingly strong, catching both Kayden and me off guard. With a sudden tug, she easily pulled me out of Kayden's grasp and began marching me toward the house where her husband waited. As we approached the porch, the resemblance between the two men became even more striking. They shared the same dark hair and sharp, chiseled bone structure, though it was clear Kayden had inherited his mother's nose and the curve of her lips. They were built from the same powerful mold, though Kayden had a clear advantage in height, standing nearly four inches taller than his father. The biggest difference, however, was in the eyes—where Kayden's were a piercing steel gray, this man's were a deep, smoky blue.
We were only a few steps from the porch when the man raised a curious eyebrow, clearly about to ask who his wife had just abducted. But before he could get a word out, Lydia came to a dead stop. She glanced back over her shoulder at her son. "Kayden, do be a dear and check the mailbox for me? I was just about to do it when I saw you and completely forgot to grab the mail."
I looked back at Kayden. He let out a heavy sigh, mumbling something incoherent under his breath about being an errand boy, but he turned back toward the sidewalk anyway. The moment his back was turned, Lydia's mission resumed. She practically dragged me up the porch steps and through the front door, which her husband was already holding open with an amused, knowing glint in his smoky blue eyes.
As we reached the top of the porch steps, Lydia didn't slow down for a second. "Artemis, this is my husband and Kayden's father, Lucian Silvermoon," she chirped, barely glancing at him as she hauled me toward the threshold. "Lucian, dear, this is Artemis Silverfang—Kayden's mate." Lucian's eyes went wide, a flash of genuine shock crossing his features. We only had a split second to exchange a brief, mutual nod of greeting before I was whisked past him and into the warmth of the house. I heard the heavy thud of the front door closing behind us as Lucian followed, clearly not wanting to miss whatever was about to happen. We made it a few feet into the foyer before Lydia finally released my hand. "I'd better go check on what the others have gotten up to!" she declared, her eyes bright with some secret mission.
Without another word, she hurried deeper into the house, leaving me standing there slightly breathless and wondering exactly what kind of storm I'd just been swept into. A deep, resonant chuckle came from behind me. I turned to see Lucian standing there, his expression a mix of apology and amusement. "I have to apologize for my mate's behavior," he said, his voice warm. "When Lydia gets excited like this, she tends to forget everything around her and just follows her instincts. She always means well, but if she makes you uncomfortable, please tell her. She'll stop immediately, I promise."
I shook my head, a small smile playing on my lips as I adjusted my coat. "She hasn't made me uncomfortable. I just don't think I've ever met anyone quite as forward as her—except maybe Amelia." Lucian nodded, a knowing glint in his smoky blue eyes. "That makes sense. Mia has spent so much time with Lydia since she was a pup that she's picked up more than a few of her habits." Before I could ask who "the others" were that Lydia had mentioned, the front door swung open again. Kayden stepped inside, a small stack of mail in his hand and a look of mild suspicion on his face as he scanned the room for his mother.
I watched as Lucian stepped forward and placed a hand on his son's shoulder. "Thanks for getting the mail, son." Kayden nodded, handing over the stack of letters. "No problem." As his father began to flip through the envelopes, Kayden immediately moved to my side. He searched my face, his expression tense. "My mother didn't do or say anything weird to you while I was gone, did she?" Lucian let out a sharp snort at the question, while I simply shook my head. Kayden blew out a long, relieved breath, his shoulders finally dropping from their defensive hunch. "That's good. That's really good."
Before I could ask what exactly he had been afraid of, Lydia's voice rang out from the hallway. She stood there with her hands on her hips, an exasperated expression on her face. "What are you all still doing over here? Honestly! Everyone is in the living room waiting for the three of you." Lucian chuckled again, a deep, resonant sound. He walked over to his wife, pausing to press a tender kiss to her cheek before taking her hand and leading her further into the house. Left alone in the foyer, Kayden sighed and shook his head. When his eyes met mine, they were full of apology. "I'm sorry, Ari. I really wanted to prolong your meeting with them. They can be... a lot. They're overbearing on a good day, but when they're all together like this, it's a madhouse."
I smiled at his concern. It was genuinely sweet that he was so worried about my comfort. I couldn't resist reaching out and squeezing his hand. "There's no need to worry, Kayden. Your family seems lovely. I'm sure I'll grow to care for them just as I have for you." A brilliant smile broke across his face. He intertwined our fingers, leaning down to press a light, quick kiss against my lips—a silent thank you. "Come on then," he whispered. "Let's go before they come back out here and demand a formal explanation for what's taking us so long."
Kayden led me into the living room, a space that felt lived-in and comfortable, yet charged with the sudden energy of our arrival. Lucian had already claimed a chair at the far end of the room, positioned so he could watch the entrance with a relaxed but attentive gaze. Lydia stood beside him, but the moment we stepped through the threshold, she moved toward the center of the room, her smile welcoming and bright. My attention, however, was immediately drawn to the other man in the room. He was leaning against the far wall with his arms crossed, an eyebrow arched in a look of intense scrutiny. He wasn't just looking at us; he was studying us, his gaze sharp and calculating, as if he were weighing whether we were a threat or an ally.
He shared the signature midnight-black hair of the Silvermoon men, though his was grown out longer, brushing the back of his neck in a messy, effortless style. His eyes were a smoky gray—a shade that sat somewhere between his father's blue and Kayden's piercing steel. While Kayden and Lucian possessed a broad, heavy-set muscularity, this man was built differently. He was leaner, with a lithe, athletic frame that suggested speed and agility rather than raw power. Standing about two inches shorter than Kayden, he was still a formidable presence. He wore a black, short-sleeved button-down with the top few buttons left undone, revealing a glimpse of a muscular chest and a dark tattoo that climbed from his shoulder up the side of his neck. A single silver piercing glinted in his ear, adding to his rugged, slightly rebellious look. The silence in the room stretched for a beat too long as he continued to eye us, his chiseled jaw set in a neutral line.
My eyes moved to the center of the couch, where another woman sat watching us. She possessed the signature midnight-black hair of the Silvermoon line, cut into a sleek, shoulder-length style. While she shared her father's sharp, chiseled facial features, she had clearly inherited her mother's full, pouty lips. Unlike Lydia, however, she was tall and long-limbed. She had the build of a professional athlete—long, shapely legs and wide hips emphasized by the black and green leggings she wore. Her tight sports bra showcased a lean, powerful frame, revealing defined abs and toned arms. Every inch of her looked disciplined, as if she never missed a day of training. While most of her features leaned toward her father, she had inherited her mother's green eyes—though hers were a muted, striking olive rather than Lydia's bright forest green.
Tucked away in an armchair on the other side of the room was a second woman. Her presence was much milder, almost shy, compared to the commanding energy of her siblings. Her black hair was long and wavy like Lydia's, cascading down to the middle of her back. Her features were softer and more youthful, with a rounded button nose and her father's thinner lips. She was petite and curved, sharing her mother's fuller figure. Her eyes were a deep, clear petrol blue—the same base shade as Lucian's, but without the smoky gray haze that clouded his. She sat with her legs tucked up into the chair, a book resting on her lap. I was certain we had interrupted her reading the moment we walked in. The room was a gallery of power and grace, and as I stood there beside Kayden, I realized I wasn't just meeting his family—I was meeting a small army.
"I don't know if Kayden has had a chance to tell you much about his family yet," Lydia said, her eyes twinkling, "but he does have three siblings." I nodded to confirm that he'd mentioned them, and her smile widened. "Good. Then I can get straight to the introductions."
She gestured toward the woman on the couch in the black and green leggings. "This is my daughter, Eliza. She's the second oldest, right after Kayden." Eliza gave a sharp, confident nod. Lydia then turned to the woman tucked into the armchair with her book. "And this is Annalise, my third child." Annalise offered a soft, shy smile before Lydia finally pointed to the man leaning against the wall. "And finally, this is Asher. He's the youngest of my four."
Asher didn't move from his lazy slouch. He just let his gaze travel over me one more time before he shifted his eyes to his brother. "You do realize," he drawled, his voice dripping with mock pity, "that she is way out of your league, right?" The room instantly erupted. Lucian let out a deep bark of laughter, and Eliza and Annalise immediately chimed in with their vocal agreement. I watched, amused, as Kayden and Asher fell into a rapid-fire, playful argument—the kind only brothers who have known each other for a century can have.
My attention was pulled away when Eliza suddenly stood. She moved with a predator's grace, closing the distance between us in a few long strides. She stopped directly in front of me, her olive eyes scanning my frame with professional interest. "You definitely look like you train," she noted, her voice low and challenging. "How good are you in a real fight?"
My eyes widened at the bluntness of the question, but before I could answer, Annalise's gentle voice drifted over from the armchair. "Oh, please, Eliza," she said, not looking up from her book but wearing a small, knowing smirk. "We've all heard the rumors by now. She's obviously the silver-haired beauty who defeated every one of our pack members without breaking a sweat. She even took down our annoying older brother—and he hasn't lost a match since he was a teenager."
Eliza's olive eyes locked onto mine with sudden, fierce determination. "How about it, then? A quick sparring round out back?" Annalise didn't even look up from her book this time, though she let out an audible groan. "Eliza, do you think about anything else besides fighting everyone you meet? I swear, it's like your mind is hard-wired for violence." Eliza rolled her eyes, her hands flying to her hips as she prepared a retort. But before she could get a single word out, Lydia stepped expertly between them. "How about instead of arguing," Lydia began, her tone brooking no refusal, "you two come help me cut the brownies I made and bring some out for everyone? Now."
The two sisters shared a synchronized sigh—a classic display of sibling defeat—before turning and heading toward the kitchen to do as they were told. Once they were out of earshot, Lydia turned back to me, her expression softening into a warm glow. "I hope you like milk chocolate brownies, Artemis. I was hoping we could enjoy them while we all get to know one another. After all, we're going to be family." I couldn't help but smile at the genuine kindness in her voice. "I'd love a brownie, Lydia. Thank you."
"Good," she chirped, patting my arm. "I can tell we're going to get along swimmingly." A strange, scuffling sound from across the room drew our attention. I turned to see Kayden and Asher no longer standing apart; Kayden had his younger brother in a firm headlock, his knuckles grinding into Asher's scalp in a ruthless nuggie. Lydia let out a long, weary sigh. "Boys," she muttered under her breath, "I swear they never grow up." She started toward them to play peacemaker once again. Asher finally managed to squirm out of Kayden's grasp, both of them breathless and wearing matching, lopsided grins. Despite the "attack," they were laughing—a clear sign that beneath the teasing and the headlocks, there was a bond as strong as iron.
Just as the brothers were about to lunge at each other again, Lydia materialized between them like a whirlwind, stopping them both in their tracks. She didn't say a word at first, simply grabbing Asher by the arm and hauling him toward the couch. "That is quite enough roughhousing for one night," she scolded, though her eyes danced with amusement. "Sit. Eat a brownie. Behave."
As she pushed Asher onto the cushions, Kayden finally relaxed. He wrapped a heavy, protective arm around my shoulders, pulling me into his side and pressing a lingering, tender kiss to the top of my head. I leaned into him, the scent of sandalwood and forest rain from his skin mingling with the rich, sweet aroma of chocolate now wafting into the room.
Eliza and Annalise emerged from the kitchen like a well-coordinated team, carrying trays of milk chocolate brownies. They moved through the room with practiced efficiency, handing out plates until everyone had a pair of thick, warm squares. Annalise took her spot back in her armchair, while Eliza claimed the space next to Asher. After they sat down, that is when the first question of the night was asked as we all enjoyed the brownies and talked to one.