The echo of the crowd’s cheers still rang in Serena’s ears as she stepped off the ice, the Shadow Pack’s victory over Blood Moon a blazing triumph that pulsed through her veins. Scoring the winning goal had been a rush, a moment where she felt untouchable, free from Hart’s shadow. But his parting words—*“You’ll pay for this”*—clung to her like frost, chilling her exhilaration. The weight of the mate bond, her fire witch secret, and the mysterious cloaked figure watching from the stands pressed down on her as she made her way to the locker room.
Austin caught up to her, his grin infectious despite the tension. “You were a legend out there, Serena,” he said, tossing her a towel. “Blood Moon didn’t know what hit ‘em. You sure you’re not Shadow Pack material?”
Serena managed a weak smile, wi
