The cold night air clung to Ariana’s skin as Kael’s massive wolf form carried her up the winding driveway. His silver fur shimmered under the moonlight, muscles rippling with every powerful stride. The journey from the forest to the hilltop mansion felt both endless and fleeting, each moment sharpened by the reality she had just witnessed—Kael had shifted in front of her, proving without question what he was.
The mansion loomed ahead, its dark stone walls and wide glass panels reflecting the faint light of the moon. Warm golden light spilled from the tall windows, casting an inviting glow across the gravel driveway. The building had the elegance of a modern estate but carried an undercurrent of something older, something primal.
Kael slowed his pace, claws scraping against the stone path
