Ayla's POV
Three days passed quickly as we prepared, my mom fussed over birthday plans and dad coordinated with pack members for the celebration. I tried not to think about the fact that Arkon would be arriving today but it kept failing.
Arkon, not Professor Arkon anymore. He had told me the night before: "When we're together, just call me Arkon. The 'professor' thing feels wrong now."
The thought made my stomach flutter with nervous excitement.
I was helping Mom arrange flowers in the living room when my phone buzzed.
Arkon: Leaving the Academy now. Should arrive by evening.
I showed my Mom as I call her the screen, and she nodded with understanding.
She paused, a lily in her hand, and looked at me seriously. "Your father told me everything. About the mate bond. About what you've b
