uriosities when Emma finally finished sweeping up the last of the glass. Her arms

tood by the window, boarding it up with supplies from the hardware store he'd retrieved an hour ago. The muscles in his back rip

he said without turning around

ks heat. "Enhanced

smile playing on his lips. "Just th

ith meaning. Emma busied herself with arranging

happens next," Lucas said,

to call my insurance company, though I'm not sure

ent – made her look up. "Marcus won't stop. Wha

she'd been holding. "B

o stand before her. "But also beca

pack?" Emma frowned. "I

ning light. "As the Alpha's mate, you'd have a position of power. Marcus

The question came out

we were sixteen, and you defended me against those bullies in high school. What I've wanted since you held my hand at my mother's funeral. What I've wanted every d

hroat. "And if I choose you?

ld completely. The transformation wouldn't turn you into a werewolf – that can only happen through a bite – but you'd be connec

f I sa

your choice. I'll find another way to protect you fro

el the heat radiating from his body. "And what abo

icult," he admitted.

n his chest, feeling his heart raci

rs. "No," he growled softly. "It's not enough. These past five years have been in hell, Emma. Being away from you,

de her own chest ache. "Then wh

holding her like she was something precious. "I needed to learn how to control

"You have always been worthy. And I'm not some damsel who needs be protect

est. "Believe me, I didn't mis

though. This mate bond... is it like a supernatural marriage? Because I ha

n't have to happen right away. We can take time, date properly, let you adjust to all of this." H

ldhood best friend is actually an Alp

you need to know. The pack... they'll want to meet you. Now that Ma

of nervousness. "H

Lucas said. "Most of them you already know, actu

?" Emma's eyes widened. "But

cas chuckled. "Being a werewolf extends human lifespan considerably. The

alf the town is

hat. And they're all going to love you, Emma. Most of th

or anything

shop secured. Then you're coming to stay at my house – no arguments," he added when she ope

ke care o

But you don't have to. Let me help, not because you ne

er resistance crumble. "Fine

mischievous. "Besides, I seem to remember you always

e on the hill

n you, it's not just me living there. Several pack members stay there to

e a werewol

tucked a strand of hair behind her ear.

t's

ghtly as he looked

s wh

e pack." His voice dropped to that low growl tha

eally know how to sweep a g

ed down, his lips barely brushing her

the complete upheaval of her quiet life, Emma found herself nodding. Because in the end,

hispered aga

her could have lit