Emily’s POV
The cold air stung my cheeks as Tessa and I stepped out of the dark and musty maids' quarters. The sun hung low in the sky, casting long, orange-tinged shadows across the packhouse lawn. It was almost time for dinner prep, but for once, Tessa seemed... cheerful.
Her phone buzzed again, and she peeked at the screen, her lips curling into a dreamy smile. My wolf rolled her eyes internally.
"Lucas again?" I teased, bumping her shoulder lightly.
"What? No!" Tessa blushed furiously, her voice climbing an octave. "Okay, yes. But stop smirking. You're worse than he is."
"Doubt that," I said, laughing softly. My laughter died quickly, though, as my eyes caught something on her collarbone.
"Tessa," I said sharply, my voice lowering. "What's that?"
Her eyes widened, and she yanked
