“What?” My dad sounded concerned. “Raven, honey, if something’s wrong—” “Nothing’s wrong,” I lied, managing a light chuckle. “I just need to unwind for a while, that’s all. But I’m having a nice time here. It’s… warm. And I’m making some friends.” At that, Neil glanced up from beneath his eyebro
Raven I woke up the next morning still feeling that same anger. The events of the previous night felt like a thorn stuck in my side. My phone call with my father should have made me happy, relieved even. I should have been over the moon to hear his voice and to know that my affairs were in good
The damage from the rogue attack was worse than I had realized. Several houses had been reduced to rubble, only the charred remains of their foundations left. Some of the structures had been partially rebuilt, with new beams and wooden planks propped up as villagers worked to restore what they’d los
Raven Firelight flickered across the village square, throwing dancing shadows over the tables lined with food and drink. The air smelled richly like roasted meat and fresh bread, mingling with the sweet smell of wildflowers that villagers had woven into crowns for the children. Music drifted from
At that, Ember’s gaze darkened, and I could sense the resentment bubbling just below the surface. She shook her head and took another big gulp of her ale. It was strange, seeing her be so open about something like this. After all, Ember was the last person I’d expect to be open about… well, much o
Raven As the victor challenged Neil, the whole village square seemed to freeze. Conversations dropped off, laughter died down, and suddenly, all eyes turned to Neil, who was still standing quietly beside me. His expression didn’t change, but something flickered in his gaze. I couldn’t tell if he
Ember gestured toward the ring, where Neil and his opponent were still sparring relentlessly. “In Lycan tradition, the ultimate victor of fights like these will choose whoever cheered the loudest to dance with after the fight… and maybe even take home.” Ember’s lip curled a little at that last bit.
Raven Neil led me toward the dance floor, which had cleared of people during the fight. The music began to play the moment we set foot in the center of the circle, a lively and upbeat tune that thrummed up through the soles of my feet. Someone in the crowd whistled as Neil tugged me closer, and
“Isn’t it?” I felt my palms begin to itch. “One minute you’re… you’re kissing me up against a tavern, and the next you’re treating me like I’m nothing!” “Raven—” “I’ve had enough!” I wiped at my eyes angrily. “I am so fucking sick of men like you and Nathan treating me like an object to be used
Raven I stared in horror at the sight before me. My horse was now laying on the ground, her leg twisted awkwardly, the arrow I had loosed embedded deep into her knee. Blood seeped around the shaft, staining her glossy coat a dark crimson. Panic surged through me as I scrambled off the ground and
As I stared at his retreating form, his shoulders rigid, I felt frustration bubble up inside of me. I knew that what we did last night was a mistake, but he was acting like a moody teenager. “Start at the beginning of the course,” he said, plopping down on the stump and folding his arms. I opene
Raven The morning sun cast long shadows across the training yard as I swung the wooden sword in a wide arc, sweat dripping down my forehead. My muscles screamed in protest from a morning spent training, but I gritted my teeth and continued the routine Ember had drilled into me. Block, parry, str
I just knew I wanted him. Even if we were outside a dingy tavern in the middle of the night, inches from being spotted, I didn’t care. Wanting my mate was the most natural thing in the world. A soft moan escaped me as I shut my eyes, feeling his warmth press into me. The heat between my thighs pul
Raven The sudden press of Neil’s lips against mine felt like a lightning strike, electricity coursing through my body. For a second, I couldn’t breathe, couldn’t think—I could only feel the searing warmth of Neil’s mouth on mine and the roughness of his grip around my wrists. But just as quickly
He gave a short nod, apparently satisfied. A few moments later, the guards returned with drinks. Castor and Eric were in the midst of recounting the battle, ale sloshing out of mugs as they gestured wildly. “And then Neil dove right into the heart of the fight,” Castor was saying. “One rogue after
Raven The tavern was dimly lit and packed, the air smelling thickly of alcohol and smoke. It seemed the entire village was there tonight, celebrating the warriors returning safely. We made our way to a table in the corner, our cloaks up to shield our faces despite the crowded atmosphere. The gua
Ember remained silent, studying me with an amused glint in her eyes. “But at least here,” I muttered, swinging again and managing to force her to step back, “Lycan women are honest about their intentions. You don’t pretend to be best friends while plotting behind someone’s back.” As I took anoth