Music blared through Derek’s parents’ windows for my birthday party. Mom and Dad stood behind me with a plate of meatloaf that smelled good for once.
Dad ruffled my hair. “You ready to meet your mate?”
I rolled my eyes. “Mom has actually convinced you that Derek’s my mate?”
He gazed at her and then leaned toward me, smiling. “No, but we’ll keep that between you and me.”
Rachel opened the door, wearing a blue party hat. “Izzy! Happy birthday!” She pulled me into the room of sweaty bodies.
Nearly everyone in the pack was here, even Vanessa and Jane. Rachel swore that Derek hadn’t invited either of them, and I was sure they had just shown up without an invite anyway. That was kind of their thing.
Derek saw me from across the room, dancing his way around everyone. He handed me a drink an
