ANNALISE
I twiddle my thumbs and stare anxiously around at all the other couples eating out tonight. I’m brought out of my haze when Dante clutches my hand under the table.
“Share more about yourself, Annalise.”
“Oh, we’re starting with me. Hum, well. There isn’t much to disclose. What you’ve seen already is what you get. Uh. What have you heard about me? We should start there.”
I’m feeling underdressed. Had I been aware Dante would bring me to the most prestigious restaurant within the pack’s borders, I would have selected one of my finest dresses to wear. I pull at the hem, hoping a few more inches will appear.
Dante observes me for a moment before answering.
“You know I hang out with Jarek and his group, correct?”
“The jocks and head honchos, yeah. So I can only imagine what you’ve heard.”
“I am a remarkable judge of character. I figured it would be best to ignore everything they said about you from the start, Annalise. One thing I have observed is you would be a beast on the battlefield. Whether you are my mate, come back to Scotland when we leave in a couple of years. We could use more warriors in our troop. Beyond that, I’ve noticed that you are timid at first, but don’t hesitate to express your thoughts. I can sense you are just as beautiful from within as you are on the outside.”
“I don’t possess a wolf, Dante. Who knows if she’ll choose to emerge? I have no desire to be a part of a pack. I’d rather go rogue than listen to someone barking demands upon me for the rest of my life. I have a deep love for my parents and I will miss them. But I’m not keen on being here when Jarek takes control.”
“More reason to come back with us when the time comes.”
“Even if my wolf stays non-existent?”
“You have a wolf, Annalise. You need to convince her she’s safe to venture out. Stop permitting your brother to overpower you.”
“It’s simpler to say than to do, Dante.”
I shove food around my plate, wishing we could end the pleasantries and move on to a more interesting conversation. Like Dante giving me more information about himself.
“I can assist you with your brother, as well as aid you in connecting with your wolf.”
“That’s not attainable. Would you mind a change of subject? I don’t enjoy talking about myself; it’s uncomfortable.”
“Your openness is captivating.”
Dante grins and slides his chair closer to mine.
“Let’s finish eating and take a stroll.”
Thirty minutes ago, Dante and I ventured into the forest. As we approach the hidden cave along the mountain, I discovered a couple of years back; I grow anxious. Each time I try to take him in another direction, he speaks up and brings me back on track. Dante grins and shakes his head.
“Belongs to you, does it?”
“I am completely in the dark about what you are saying. We should head back. It’s time to say goodnight.”
“Your mom sent a mind link. You aren’t required to be home until twelve. So we have a while before we should return. Be careful.”
I shriek when he tugs me to his side and embraces me protectively.
“I’m sorry. For a moment, I overlooked the fact that you haven’t received your shifter powers. You were about to smash into a tree.”
He switched on his phone’s flashlight and I squinted as the terrain appeared.
“I’m well-acquainted with these woods and the mountains and aware of our intended location. I put my confidence in you, Dante. So I wasn’t worried about being blind. I figured you would keep me from smashing into anything.”
He freed me, gazed at me affectionately, and ran his fingers through my hair. He smiled, and without a word, clutched my hand and pulled me toward one of the many secluded locations I have on the territory. I concealed myself in multiple spots when I was stalked and terrorized.
“How did you track down my hideout?”
“Yours, huh? I’ve been returning here, expecting to find you. On the first night that my family arrived, I discovered this den. The following day at school, I could smell your scent and it all made sense. I’ve been drawn to you since then. Is it alright if I bring items to add to your vast collection of odds and ends? I must confess I already have brought a few things. If they aren’t to your liking, I can take them back with us when we leave.”
“I don’t mind at all. You’ve spent more time here in one week than I’ve been able to in over a month.”
He smiled, brought out a lighter, and lit the wicks of candles I have placed throughout the cavern. None of the others in the pack has previously located me by scenting me. So I’m baffled by his declaration.
“Prior to you inquiring, since I’m aware you will do so. My family’s bloodline is ancient. One of the first families bred with human/lupine abilities. Our lupine powers are more prominent. Others may not detect you, but I can do so with no hassles. Damn, please forget I said any of that. My parents will have my ass if that information comes out.”
“I have never heard about an ancient race of werewolves. Also, I don’t have anyone to tell. Not that I would anyway. You can put your trust in me, Dante.”
He embraces me and takes a step back to examine me.
“I know. That’s one thing I adore about you. Now, sit on this blanket. I meant what I said when I told you I would help you connect with your wolf.”
“This is not the moment or the location. If I were to shift, all of our belongings would burn to dust.”
Knitting my brows, I pondered the consequences of shifting. A wolf’s first shift could be deadly. Dante and I are deep in the woods, far from the pack hospital.
“I can see the wheels spinning inside your head through your eyes. If anything were to happen, I could bring you to the infirmary in an instant. Trust me, Annalise. I would let no harm come to you.”
“Um…”
“Please, Annalise. Allow me to assist you with this. We may accomplish nothing tonight, but you need to try. Don’t be frightened,” Dante said while lending me his hand.
***
“Her name is Larissa, and she is gorgeous. Her beauty captivated my wolf, Titan. Can you not sense her? I have never seen a wolf so breathtaking. Selene has blessed you, Annalise.”
“No. All I detect is darkness. This happens any time I enter meditation or hypnosis to link with her. However, we are making progress if you can recognize her. I’m perplexed why she won’t bond with me. What else could I do?”
“Perhaps you could sleep on it. The answers could slip their way into your subconscious. We must leave. I want to avoid getting you home past curfew.”
Dante broke my trance, and we skipped around, extinguishing candles.
“I’m going to shift, so I can return quicker than if we were to walk. Keep this for me and wait for me outside.”
He gave me his phone and a backpack and I ventured outside. I’m disheartened Dante could interact with my wolf, but still left me unaware of her. What else will I need to do? At least now, I know I have a wolf. Not even the elders have been able to sense or contact her. Larissa is such a beautiful name.
Moments later, the biggest wolf I’ve ever seen came bounding over. His fur was black as twilight, yet its tail and paws were white. A sapphire crescent moon shines between its luminous green orbs. Most wolves have gold eyes. Titan is privileged to have Dante’s memorizing emerald eyes. He makes me get so weak in the knees. I can’t help but nibble my bottom lip as my panties grow damp. Damn these teenage hormones of mine.
“Titan?” I question as I reach up to scratch behind his ears.
Titan whimpers and nuzzles my cheek with his cold nose. Dante’s garments drop from Titan’s lips, and I become hysterical when he kisses my face.
“Titan, stop! You’re going to make us late.” I giggle while backing away to escape him.
I collected Dante’s clothing from the ground, folded them, and stuffed them into the backpack Dante provided for me.
Titan crouched down so I could swing myself on top of him. I gripped his fur in my hands and once he knew I was secure; he bolted through the forest at lightning speed. To keep myself from getting vertigo, I held onto him and shut my eyes. I hope his shifting helps. I would hate to get reprimanded for arriving past curfew.
JAREKEleven o’clock drew near and there was no trace of Dante or Silver. Mom and dad went to bed an hour ago. It’s up to me to find Silver and bring her home safely. Under no circumstances would mom and dad let this one go unnoticed. She ventures out and thinks she’s freed from her curfew. I don’t think so. Xillon and Zane met up with me and we rushed to the city.“Where the hell is she?” I growl, balling my fists.We have been scouring the area for thirty minutes, and with no trace of Silver or Dante. The asshole will wish he had never been born when we find them. Silver is going to face severe consequences.“I have no clue whatsoever, man. Dante’s scent went dormant in the parking lot of the restaurant we just left.” Xillon points out.“We should shift and go into the woods. Silver takes cover out there often.” Zane suggested.“Or we could bypass the hassle and surprise them back at the pack house,” I suggested.“Sounds good to me,” Xillon muttered, and we slid into his Jeep.ANNAL
ANNALISEDante’s mouth meets mine and a surge of energy courses through me. Fireworks exploded beyond my shuttered eyes. I’m as light as a cloud. Nothing could separate me from Dante. My soul could explode any second, and I relish the sensation.He teases my lips, and I succumb to him. I find it hard to catch my breath because he kisses me with such intensity, but I don’t mind. I never desire this to cease. I shove my fingers through his locks, yanking the strands as I pull him closer to me, gyrating my clit along his erection. Thank goodness, I'm donning a dress. Moaning, I deepen the kiss as Dante massages my glutes. I'm certain to come if we keep this up. A fierce flame courses through my body and sweat breaks out on my skin. This is all far beyond remarkable to be true.A sound of throat clearing emanates from near us. He withdraws and we gasp for air.“I had greater expectations, Annalise. Join me before the Alpha catches you. Take a hike, Dante. You plastered your scent all over
ANNALISECuddling my body pillow, I lay my head down and do my best to shut my mind off. We filled this evening with excitement and wonder. I can’t help but presume I am so close to connecting with my wolf. For, three months I’ve sweat and toiled. If Larissa would join me in this struggle against Jarek, my life would be so much simpler.It’s crazy. I shouldn’t be, but beyond everything. I am concerned about Jarek. I don’t believe I’ll be able to relax until I confirm he is okay. He deserved every bit of what I gave him tonight. Wouldn’t feel bad doing it all over again if the opportunity presented itself. Nevertheless, I am aware Trex has left him, as he often does. I need to reach out to him and convince him to heal Jarek. Otherwise, there could be irreversible damage. I wasn't in my right mind when I booted him in the temple. His trachea was shattered. I have faith in Cadance, but still.Sitting up with a groan, I throw my legs over the side of the bed and jump down. Putting on a pa
DANTE“Father.”“Hello, son. It's late, what's wrong?”“I believe I have found her.”“The princess.”“Yes, sir. However, it’s hard to tell with the limited information we have gotten. She is unaware of who or what she is. She cannot bond with her wolf. Despite that, I put her under a hypnotic trance and Titan linked with her wolf, Larissa.”“Hum. Good job, son. You must bring her to me as soon as possible. You are not strong enough to help her. She's doomed if her wolf fails to manifest soon. Her human nature will oppose being three entities in one. I hope we are not too late.”“I apologize, sir. I gave it my best shot. As you said, I'm not powerful enough. An ancient Alpha like yourself is the only person who could assist her. ““Bring her to me promptly. There’s no time to waste.”“That might be hard for me to accomplish. One entity within her took over tonight, and she attacked the Alpha’s son. I have no knowledge of his condition, but he didn't appear to be in good shape when I wa
ZANEI said it before and I'll repeat it; Silver will be the Pack’s downfall. Our future alpha will remain confined to bed for a while because of her. It’s my job to get rid of the problem. If it weren’t for her, Jarek would have brothers and sisters to strengthen his line of succession. Like me, I have seven siblings, and Xillon has five. Silver came along and Luna Celestia became barren.Jarek has always pussy footed around the fact that we should torture her, so when she turns eighteen she’ll leave on her own. Now I’m leaning towards removing her in the present. Two years is much too long. I’ll be head over military tactics and guard. Protecting the Pack is in my blood, and that I will do. Disposing of Silver is of the utmost priority.‘You are insane. If you think for a second, I would let you touch her.’‘You’ve stayed loyal for the past twelve months. What’s changed now?’‘If you want to call not healing broken bones and not coming to your aid when a human virus attacks you, sta
XILLONI’m struggling to make sense of the little information I have. But I’m baffled by what I know so far. Selene’s daughter dwells inside Annalise’s subconscious. Jarek’s dream he had seemed to unfold before our very eyes. Just not in the way he described. Honestly, I’m afraid of what we are about to uncover once Gabriel and I tear down the walls that have her bound in darkness.“Annalise?” I yell into the dark abyss of Annalise’s mind. I can’t sense her, or anything, within the darkness.“She’s no longer here. Her soul has left her body. Quickly, we must go back,” Gabriel commands, and suddenly we are transported back to our bodies.ANNALISEFloating aimlessly above the scene unfolding before me, I feel a sense of peace and serenity. Which is something I’ve never felt from the day I was born. I would rather remain here than return to a life where I have been tortured and never loved. Not by whom I hoped to be loved by, anyway.I watch as Xillon and Gabriel fuss over my body. I hea
ANNALISE“You, my child, are the daughter born of my father, creator of all things, and my mother, creator of shifters. At one time, put in human terms, they knew you as the goddess Aphrodite. In time, you will recollect where your soul originates from. You hold the power of three powerful beings in one. Which is why my twin sister Zadrial inhabited you. You were the only one who could withstand her power and not perish before she could carry out her plan to seek her Twin Flame. I must go back and let mother know where Zadrial is located. I could only tap into her via our twin bond. Being inside her consciousness, I can see and feel everything she has planned.”“So what am I exactly? Has Zadrial always been inside me? Is that why I was born as a freak? My life has been hell because of her. I haven’t been able to manifest my wolf Larrisa because of her meddling with my life. And what exactly is a Twin Flame?”“No. Zadrial inhabited you just before you came of age to shift into your wol
XILLONStriding to the vacant space adjoining Annalise’s, I draw my mobile phone from my back pocket and send a brief message to Alpha Maxamillian. He and Luna Celestia are in meetings with the neighboring pack-leaders, so I know better than to call.I send a mind link to Jarek and Zane, then walk back to Annalise’s room. ‘Annalise is awake.’Upon arriving at Annalise’s room, I see Cadance was gone and Annalise appears to have fallen asleep once again. Sitting down, I caress her cheek and grip her hand in mine, hoping she would wake, but she didn’t.“Did you contact the Alpha?” Cadance asked as she walked into the room.“Yeah, but it appears Annalise has drifted off. Should I contact him and tell him it was a false alarm?”“Let me check her vitals and pupils first.”Cadance goes about her usual routine of checking Annalise’s vitals and gasps sadly when she looks into her eyes.“Her eyes are glazed over and her pupils are dilated. Message the Alpha and tell him she appears to have slip