*Greenwood — The Alpha's Quarters, Midnight*
For the first time in what felt like forever, the night was still.
Inside the Alpha’s guest quarters, firelight flickered low across stone walls, painting Ryder’s bare shoulders in gold.
His wolf, Aiden, prowled restless beneath his skin, urging him closer to the bond that burned between him and Crystal.
She sat by the window, bathed in silver moonlight, her hair spilling loose over her shoulders.
Her skin glowed faintly. Her hands rested on the sill, fingers trembling though she fought to keep them steady.
Ryder’s chest tightened at the sight. He had seen her fight like a storm, standing against enemies who could crush lesser wolves.
He had seen her bleed and still stand. But now, in the quiet place, he saw what others never could… he
