Kylie's PovThe moon's gentle glow dances on the serene lake, casting a mesmerizing spell over our intimate moment. Arnold and I share a swim, but an unspoken unease hangs in the air, like a shadow intruding on our celebration.I catch the subtle shift in Arnold's demeanor. “What's on your mind?” I ask, concerned about wrinkling my forehead.He hesitates, then confesses, “I don't know. It just feels like something is wrong.”Worry floods my gaze as I suggest we head back. Arnold reassures me, pulling me into a comforting embrace. “It's just a feeling; it might be nothing.”In an attempt to lighten the mood, he twirls me in the water, and I respond with a playful splash. For a moment, we lose ourselves in the simple joy of being together.As we float side by side, our brief escape is shattered by a sudden intrusion into my mind. Bob's urgent voice echoes through our pack link, breaking the spell. “The pack is under attack.”My heart quickens, and the weight of his words settles over us

Allegra's PovUgh, ugh.” I'm sparring on the training grounds, honing the skills that have defined my life. Miles, my training partner, tackles me to the ground, and we share a laugh as I finally pin him.“Well, Allegra, you've really gotten good. I see why Beta Richard keeps singing your praises,” Miles says, helping me up.I roll my eyes, dismissing the compliment. “Oh, please, Miles. Mr. Richard hates my guts. I'm sure he'd leave a dagger in my chest if he got the chance.”Miles bursts into laughter. “No, for real, Allegra. He's proud of you. You were the first student to beat him hands-down in combat ever. He's definitely not going to like that, but it doesn't mean he doesn't like you.”I chuckle confidently. “I know I am that good; I threaten his authority. He's probably scared of me," I say, not realizing Beta Richard is close and has overheard.His throat clears, and my eyes widen in shock. “Beta Richard, uhm, I was just explaining to Miles how good you are at combat,” I stamme

Allegra’s Pov Shaking off the encounter with Alpha Xander, I head back to the training ground, where the session is in full swing. I scan the area for Miles, but he's nowhere in sight. Deciding to ask Silver, I approach her, and she abandons her sparring partner to envelop me in a tight hug. Seated on a bench, she dives into her dramatic interpretation of Alpha Xander's anger, thinking I was in mortal danger.Laughing at her exaggeration, she gives me a skeptical look. “Were you and Miles about to do something indecent in public? Alpha Xander looked like he was about to kill you.”I consider how much to reveal about the intimate moment with Miles. “It was fine, honestly. He just told me I should be… more decent in public.”Silver scrutinizes me, clearly not buying my story. “Allegra, you don't have to lie to me. It's okay if you would rather not tell me.”Shaking my head, I try to explain, “No, it's not like that. I just don't understand what happened between us.”Silver presses for

Xander’s PovAs her parents venture to the lake for a swim, leaving her momentarily unguarded, I signal Richard to initiate the attack. My warlock abilities enhance my werewolf senses, allowing me to hear the division's uproar, which the parents remain oblivious to due to their distance. I wonder about their choice to stay far from the pack and their newborn.Pushing aside my thoughts, I stealthily approach my mate's house, going upstairs to retrieve her.As I ascend the stairs to her room, the connection between us strengthens with each step. The anticipation builds, and when I open the door, she's there, nestled by her ceiba. Holding her in my arms, an overwhelming sense of warmth and tranquility washes over me, almost prompting a pleasurable moan. Being both werewolf and warlock, the intensity of the mating bond amplifies these emotions.In her embrace, she coos, and a smile graces my lips. Just then, Richard's voice echoes in my mind, updating me on the diversion they've managed i

Xander’s PovAs the days pass, I stick to my decision to avoid the training house where Allegra and Miles spend their time. Instead, I find solace in confiding in Richard, the only person I feel comfortable meeting at the training house for now.One evening, I approach Richard, who's overseeing the training sessions. “Richard, we need to talk,” I say, my tone serious.He glances at me, sensing the gravity of the situation. “What's going on, Xander?”“I can't be around Allegra right now. It's too difficult. But I need to stay connected to what's happening, especially with the training. You're the only one I can trust with this. Keep me updated on her progress,” I request, a tinge of vulnerability in my voice.Richard nods understandingly. “I get it, Xander. It's not easy for you. I'll keep you informed, but remember, you can't avoid her forever. Eventually, you'll have to face this.”I clench my jaw, acknowledging the truth in his words. “I know, Richard. But for now, let me keep my di