Jasper stood at the edge of the pack's gathering, his eyes scanning the crowd as he listened to Lucas's report. But his gaze kept drifting back to Athena, who was sitting on the periphery, her eyes fixed on the ground.
He couldn't help but notice the way the sunlight danced in her hair, highlighting the subtle waves and curls. He remembered the way her scent had filled his nostrils when they were close, a sweet and earthy aroma that made his heart race.
As she stood up to contribute to the discussion, Jasper's eyes followed her, taking in the lithe lines of her body, the way her muscles rippled beneath her fur. He felt a pang in his chest, a mix of longing and regret.
He had rejected her as his mate, citing her status as a former servant, but the truth was, he had been drawn to her from
