The courtyard has been transformed. Chairs are lined in neat rows, a simple stage built at the front with a dark cloth draped over something tall at its center. Candles sit in glass holders along the walkway, their flames trembling in the afternoon breeze. The pack fills in quietly, black and gray and navy like a storm cloud settling into place.
Ryker leads me up the steps to the stage. Two chairs wait—one for the Alpha, one for his Luna. Behind us, Eldin stands off to the side, staff in hand, and Kia positions himself where he can see the entire crowd without looking like he’s trying to. My new guards melt into the perimeter like they were born there.
Jax’s parents sit in the front row. His mother’s hands are clasped so tightly her knuckles are white, a folded cloth pinned between her f
