Aurora's POV
The warehouse smelled like rust and old rain. Very perfect.
I stood in the shadows near the cracked loading doors, my boots planted firm on the concrete floor.
Moonlight leaked through the broken windows above, cutting the darkness into sharp silver lines.
Every sound echoed here, every breath, every lie. I sent the message five minutes ago.
I’m ready to talk. Come alone.
Jake replied almost instantly.
I knew you would be. I’m on my way. Of course you are.
I slipped my phone into my pocket and closed my eyes for a moment. Not to calm down—but to center.
I reached inward, past fear, memory, past the version of me he thought he owned. The bond answered. Strong. Steady. Alive.
I wasn’t walking into this place as a broken woman. I was walking in as an Alpha’s mate.
S
