he had always loved this place, the way the trees seemed to whisper secrets to each

this place because it was safe, because the pack rarely came here. But Aria couldn't shake the

brush. The forest was quiet, the only sound the distant hooting of an owl. Aria felt a

nst the trunk of the tree, his eyes fixed on her as she walked. Aria

ough her. His hair was messy, his jawline strong and defined. Ari

from the tree as Aria approache

to her cheeks. "Thanks," she said,

mean it," he said, his voice low and husky. "You always

a simple white dress, the fabric clinging to her curves as she moved. Ryder's eyes seemed to

again, her voice ba

d you could make it tonight," he said, his voice lo

a beat as she heard his words. She had been thinkin

ng with anticipation. Aria felt like she was drowning in Ryder's eye

elt a rush of excitement, her body responding to the touch of his skin. She wrapp

em, lost in the passion of the moment. Aria felt like she was

to whisper secrets to each other in the wind. Aria felt like she was

his eyes locked on hers. "I have something t

with possibilities. What could Ryder have to sho

n her chest. "Okay," she said, h

e corners. "Follow me," he said, turni

at Ryder had planned, but she was ready for whatever came next. Sh

ound them. Aria felt a shiver run down her spine, but she didn't let it

runch of leaves beneath their feet. Aria felt like she was

eyes fixed on something up ahead. Aria follo

breath away, leaving