Chapter 25
716words
The attraction between us is undeniable, growing stronger each day. But is it wise? Am I ready? The questions circle in my mind without clear answers.
Eventually, I make my way back to the house, finding Thea in the library with several other wolves, discussing plans for the joining ceremony.
"There you are," she says, making room for me on the couch. "We were just talking about the celebration after the ceremony. Any requests?"
I blink, surprised. "It's that big a deal?"
"Of course,” the waitress from the diner, Maya, says. "It's not every day we welcome a new pack member. Especially one with your… history.”
The way she says it makes me tense. "My history?"
"She means surviving a forced bond," Thea clarifies quickly. "It's rare. Impressive."
"Oh." I relax slightly. "I didn't do it alone."
"Still," Maya continues, "it's cause for celebration. Plus, you're Thea's sister. Already family."
The simple acceptance in her words warms something inside me. For so long with Marcus, I'd been an outsider, tolerated only because of his claim on me. Here, I'm welcomed for myself.
The afternoon passes pleasantly as we plan the ceremony and celebration. I find myself enjoying the camaraderie, the easy inclusion in pack activities. By the time we finish, I'm genuinely excited about officially joining the pack.
"You seem happy," Thea observes as we leave the library. "It's good to see."
"I am," I realize with some surprise. "Happier than I've been in a long time."
"Because of the pack?" she asks. "Or because of a certain alpha?"
I nudge her shoulder playfully. "Can't it be both?"
"Absolutely." She grins. "Speaking of which, I hear you have another dinner date tonight."
I roll my eyes. "Does everyone know everything around here?"
"Pretty much." She doesn't sound apologetic. "Small pack, remember?"
"It's just dinner," I say, though we both know it's more than that.
"Sure it is." She winks. "Want help getting ready again?"
"I think I can manage," I laugh. "But thanks."
As evening approaches, I find myself both nervous and excited. Last night's dinner had been ostensibly about pack business. Tonight feels more explicitly personal.
I choose my outfit carefully—dark jeans, a soft green sweater that brings out the gold in my eyes, boots. Simple but flattering. My hair I leave down, remembering how Kieran's eyes had lingered on it last night.
At precisely seven, I knock on his door. He opens it immediately, as if he'd been waiting nearby.
"Hi," I say, suddenly shy.
"Hi." His eyes warm as they take me in. "Come in."
His quarters feel different tonight—softer, with candles around the room and quiet music playing.
The table by the window is set with more care—flowers, poured wine, and dimmed lights creating an intimate atmosphere.
"This is nice," I say, accepting the glass he offers me.
"I wanted it to be special." There's a hint of uncertainty in his voice that I find endearing. "Is it too much?"
"No," I assure him. "It's perfect."
Dinner is delicious—salmon with herb sauce, vegetables, and fresh bread. We talk easily about books, travels, and childhood stories.
I learn Kieran spent a year with European werewolf packs after his mother died. He speaks three languages and loves chocolate desserts and jazz.
I tell him about my love for the ocean, my marine biology work, and my dream to return to it. I share about my failed surfing attempts, astronomy obsession, and drawing hobby.
"I'd like to see your work sometime," he says when I mention my sketches.
"They're not very good," I demur.
"I doubt that." His smile is warm. "You strike me as someone who excels at whatever she puts her mind to."
After dinner, we move to the couch again, this time sitting closer than last night. The wine and conversation have relaxed me, making it easier to be near him without the nervous tension of before.
"Can I ask you something?" I say, turning slightly to face him.
"Anything."
"Why me?" The question has been building all day. "Of all the wolves you could be interested in, why someone with my... complications?"
Kieran considers the question seriously. "Do you want the simple answer or the complete one?"
"Both," I decide.
