Ryker
--
Kai stops Ryker just as the three of them step out of the Alpha House for their run.
“Alright,” Kai says, planting a hand on Ryker’s chest. “I need you to not freak out. And I need you to be nice.”
Ryker narrows his eyes. “Why.”
Kai sighs. “El has been planning a birthday surprise all day. She’s worked really hard on it. Apparently birthdays were a big thing in her old pack with Marcus. She doesn’t want to disappoint you. So you need to be nice.”
Ryker groans. “Fine. But if one of you sings happy birthday, I’m out.”
Kai snorts. “Deal.”
They run.
Ryker tries to clear his head.
He fails.
When they return to the dining room, El is standing there waiting, hands clasped, eyes bright with nervous excitement.
The room is decorated with balloons.
Candles glow on the table.
T
