AUBREY'S POV
"Yes, yes, YES!" Aria practically bounced in our shared consciousness, her excitement vibrating through our bond. My wolf hadn't been this animated since our connection began fraying, and her eagerness to be close to Knox infuriated me.
"Stop it," I tried to command her, but she was too focused on Knox's approaching face, on his scent surrounding us, on the mate bond humming between us like a living thing.
Under the family's expectant gazes, there was no escape. Knox leaned in, and my heart betrayed me, racing so hard that I was sure everyone in the room could hear it. His presence enveloped me completely—his warmth, his strength, the alpha energy that made my wolf practically purr with satisfaction.
The kiss started softly, tentative, giving me a moment's hope that I coul
