Claire’s heart was still racing as she and Xander walked hand-in-hand back toward the massive mansion. The forest behind them felt alive, whispering secrets she was only beginning to understand. Just minutes ago, Xander had shifted into a magnificent black wolf right in front of her. She had fainted. And when she woke up, she had looked into those glowing emerald eyes and accepted him—completely.
Now, reality was crashing down.
“Are you sure about this?” she whispered, squeezing his fingers. Her voice trembled slightly. “Telling everyone right now?”
Xander stopped at the grand double doors and turned to her. He cupped her face gently, his thumbs brushing her cheeks. “I’ve waited my whole life for you, Claire. I’m not hiding you from my family. They’re going to love you.”
Before she cou
