Grayson Redwood had always prided himself on his unwavering self-control. He mastered the art of maintaining his human facade, concealing the primal wolf within until the opportune moment arose. His expertise lay in communication, diplomacy, but when the time called for it, his ferocious teeth would be bared. However, upon witnessing the statue of Royce DeVayne positioned beside his mate's crumpled form, the warrior within Grayson erupted, tearing through his flesh to reveal his true form. Unexpectedly, it was Parker, his own brother, who interposed himself between Grayson and the exit of the sweet shop. "Brother, hold on. Think," Parker implored, extending his hands as a gesture of peace. Grayson let out a deafening roar, but Parker refused to retreat. "Do you not see why he appeared here? To taunt you, to prove a point. What you must do now is attend to your mate. Bring her back to Aphelion, send Mrs. Westwood with Noa

In the realm of slumber, Ava became acutely aware that she was ensconced in an extraordinary, lucid reverie. The world around her was awash with surreal hues and captivating textures, leaving no doubt that this was indeed a dream. Amidst this phantasmagorical landscape, her senses were stirred by an eerie presence hovering above her bed: a mysterious figure shrouded in a cloak. Ava was convinced that this could only be a figment of her dreaming mind.She felt as if she had slumbered for an eternity, her eyes encrusted with fine grains of sand, her body laden with weariness, and her lips tender and chafed, as if they had been the recipients of fervent kisses. The memory of the sugar statue came rushing back, and a sense of trepidation took hold. But the cloaked figure interrupted her train of thought, dismissing the concern with an enigmatic statement."No, fret not about him. He's inconsequential. It's only you, and me," the figure murmured, as his eyes were suddenly engulfed in dark

"You might want to step back," she cautioned, a primal howl escaping her throat.Grayson appeared unsettled, yet she bared her teeth at him. I don't need you to rescue me. She hoped he understood her message.He extended his arms to hold the pack at bay, and together they stood, waiting."Why don't you run, Royce?" she taunted. "I know how much you relish the chase.""Perhaps you've forgotten the rules of this game." He produced an amulet, thrusting it in her direction.But it had no effect, not even a tingle. "Would you like me to enlighten you on where you messed up?" Her voice had deepened even further.Royce fumbled with the amulet."You twisted a wolf spirit that already existed in this realm. You merged it with the Okami—my own wolf spirit. You took it, crushed it, tore it apart, but like a fool, you pieced it back together. Now, it and I are one once more. It belongs to me. I am... it. You hold no power over us."DeVayne underwent a transformation unlike any natural werewolf. H