***Crystal POV***
Dustin’s presence filled the hall, the air shifting with the weight of his authority. His expression was carved from stone, but the moment his eyes met hers, Crystal felt the jolt—the unmistakable pull of the bond sparking beneath her skin.
Her wolf stirred, pressing forward, yearning. His scent—cedar and storm—wrapped around her, too sharp, too intoxicating.
He broke eye contact first. “You’ll come with me,” Dustin said, his tone clipped, giving nothing away. To the gathered pack, it was a simple command from their Alpha. But to Crystal, it felt like a door closing.
Bane stiffened at her side, but didn’t argue. Lizzy’s hand squeezed hers once before letting go.
Dustin turned, expecting her to follow without question. And she did, though unease coiled tight in her s
