Chapter 188: One Of The Family

Pain's reaction was instant and expected, at least from me. I'd seen her crumble like this before, watched as her face collapsed in a mix of grief and relief, witnessed meltdown after meltdown.

But this time was complete. She sagged into Odette's arms while the family rose and surrounded her, the werewolves humming softly under their breath in a gentle song of welcome. It was one of the most amazing and touching moments I'd ever witnessed and it made me ripping mad.

Not because I didn't think Pain deserved to be happy or loved. But because I knew it was all just one big lie.

Pain looked up through her mess of makeup and into Odette's eyes. "Grandmother?"

The old woman's smile made me want to slap it from her face. "Yes, mon petite chere," she said. "Your mother was my daughter and heir to our coven."

Pain hiccupped through her tears. "She was?"

My gaze left Pain, caught a flicker of movement. I was fairly certain no one else witnessed the flash of pure venom that crossed Ameline'