Heat

John observed the lively gathering in front of him, people mingling, laughing, and seated around a massive bonfire. Some children were joyfully roasting marshmallows, their screeches of delight blending with the overall atmosphere of happiness.The scene before him felt so... human. If stumbled upon in the woods, one might easily assume that Wildwood Haven for just another human town.

John was acutely aware of the large hand gripping his small one, a connection that hadn't wavered since they returned from the almost-kidnapping earlier. The tingling sensation that ran up his arm and spread throughout his body warmed something inside him. Darius had not left his side, nor had he released his hand, not even when some of the pack members, including Mirabel, attempted to hug him, making the whole motion awkward.

The worst moment had been when the group of kids that Mia had used to entice Darius away from John came to a halt in front of him. Their eager attempts to pull him away for the