“Chris…” “I know, I know,” he said with a wave of his hand. “Too much, too soon. But can you blame me for being excited? I want to be with you, Ava.” “I know you do.” I swallowed and set my jaw, looking away momentarily. “But… I don’t think I could ever live here permanently. This world is extra
Ava The docks were buzzing with activity as Chris and I hurried toward the growing crowd, our rapid footsteps echoing against the weathered wooden planks. A ferry had just docked, and a steady stream of passengers was stepping off of it. Werewolves from the human continent—those who had come to
Chris merely arched an unimpressed brow. “You’re fully entitled to your opinion, Elder Elise,” he said coolly with a polite dip of his head. “But if I recall correctly, you all agreed to this. Begrudgingly, perhaps, but you did agree.” “Perhaps. But you must admit we never expected an influx of th
Ava “A judge?” Chris asked almost incredulously, punctuating the question with a laugh. “No. You’re out of your mind if you think I would allow that.” With that, Chris continued up the stairs and brushed past Olivia. I silently followed suit, giving her a wide berth—I wasn’t about to give her a
Ava The village square was alive with the sounds of excited chatter and lively music, the scent of fresh fruit, vegetables, and grilled meats floating through the air. I surveyed the scene from my vantage point beside Chris, watching as the newly arrived contestants mingled and conversed animatedl
“Having doubts about our would-be Alphas already, Ava?” he asked, sidling up to me as the party continued. I huffed a soft laugh, swirling the wine in my glass pensively. “I’d be lying if I said no. But we’ll see how this first round of trials goes. If I’m being honest, I have a feeling most of th
AvaChris tightened his grip around my waist and began leading me over to the food table. “All this socializing is making me hungry,” he said, leaning in close so I could hear. “Let’s get something to eat.”I nodded, still a bit dazed after my dance with the man known as Dedrick. Something about him
“Elder Bradley,” I said with a polite incline of my head, quickly smoothing down my skirt. “Yes, we are.”Bradley’s eyes caught mine, and I swore I saw a knowing glint in them. Had he seen everything? Heard everything? Bradley was typically one of the more jovial Elders, but he was also the most anx