Riley's POV
I didn't expect Kirk to show up to my study, at least not this early. Despite how much I tried to maintain a nonchalant attitude, it seems my wolf was all eager to meet him. I didn't know the kind of game he was trying to play by being suddenly nice. But, if there's one thing I know, I know I wouldn't give him the chance to just get into my head.
I seized the moment of his hesitation. I turned my attention away from him, back to the canvas, hoping the physical gesture of dismissal would make him leave. I just needed him to go. I needed to be alone. I needed to breathe.
But then, I felt it. A sudden warmth against my back, the familiar scent of pine and something uniquely him, surrounded me. His arms wrapped around my waist, pulling me tightly against his chest. I froze, my
