I stood frozen.
I couldn’t breathe.
Craig’s wolf—Aspen—was bowed before me, his great silvery head lowered in reverence.
Then I heard it—not just in my ears but in my soul.
“I, Aspen, Elite Warrior of the Jewel Moon Pack, vow to protect you. I will honor your commands for the rest of my days.
I promise my life before yours, to protect my Princess… and all your future children, and those who come after.
This I vow, true and eternal. From this day forward and forever, I will serve.”
The weight of his words settled over me like a cloak woven from honor and magic. I stared at the enormous wolf in front of me—his eyes fierce, but his posture humble.
Then, another voice echoed inside me, clear and commanding:
“Accept his protection, Raine, and complete the connection.”
It was a woman’s
