The Avila convoy pulled into the school parking lot like always—sleek, expensive cars gleaming under the morning sun. Claire sat in the passenger seat of Xander’s G-Wagon, her hand firmly clasped in his. The nose guard was still in place, though the swelling had reduced significantly overnight. She felt a little self-conscious, but Xander’s constant gentle touches and reassuring words made it bearable.
As soon as the cars stopped, Alissa was out of her vehicle like a shot, Ivory and two other pack girls—Jenny and Sophie—right behind her. Their expressions were no longer playful. They looked every bit the fierce werewolf females they were.
“Alissa, wait—” Claire started, but Alissa held up a hand.
“We’ve got this,” she said, voice low and dangerous. “You go with Xander to the lounge. We’
