Page 79 of Mated to the Wolves

“Thank you for making your feelings on the topic known. It doesn’t change what needs to be done.” I stick to the facts, containing my emotions. Adding fuel to a fire never helped put it out.

“She’s right,” Bo says. “They were downright antsy in the office today. All eyes are on us and I can feel the rats scurrying in the background, waiting to make a move. We need to bring our A game at the Alvablot this week.”

The celebration was once used as a way to thank the Elves and ensure a good harvest.

“What is this spell supposed to do?” Of course, Cadoc reserves his opinions for last.

“We’re still not sure.” Kirk’s fierce stare sends sparks along my spine.

“It has the same magic that sealed the room beneath my old house. I know it’s meant for me. You’re going to have to take my word on that.”

“I don’t like –”

“Not having control, Cadoc? We get it, alpha.” I groan.

His eyes darken with an emotion that fascinated me. The dark depths he reveals continue to pull me closer daily. He’s a puzzle I want to solve.

“Watch your mouth, Brat.”

“What do you need to get this thing off the ground?” I meet Kirk’s gaze.

The whine of an approaching car engine ends our conversation.

“Are you expecting anyone?” Cadoc asks.

“No.” I shake my head and look around to see others befuddled expressions.

Cadoc heads to the door with the others in tow. Trailing behind him, I sniff, trying to catch a hint of the visitor’s scent.

Who would be coming out here at this time of night? A black sedan with tinted windows pulls into the driveway. It parks and an enforcer steps out with a large white box. He walks to the door and knocks.

Cadoc waits nearly a minute before pulling it open. “Everything alright, Alphonse? “His tone is deceptively casual.

“Alpha wanted to extend a personal invitation. Because it was last minute, he wanted to provide Ylva with an outfit to wear.” He shoves the box toward Cadoc.

“Kind of him to think about us.” Cadoc flashes a smile that shows more teeth than necessary.

“You’re the unofficial guests of honor.” Alphonse stares at me. The arousal in the depths of his eyes has me stepping back. Bo moves in front of me. Kirk and Fell press me between their big bodies.

It’s a veiled threat. We’re being ordered to attend.

Cadoc gives a slight bow. “And we’ll act accordingly.”

“I’ll relay that message. Alpha will be pleased.” Alphonse smirks.

There’s something about the enforcer that makes me edgy. Was he sent here to spy on us?

“Are you hiding her now?” Alphonse snorts. “Makes people believe there’s something strange occurring.”

“Is that what you think, Alphonse?” Cadoc’s voice holds a blatant challenge. “Cause I know you wouldn’t start rumors about my mate. That’d be grounds for a fight.”

“No.” He takes a step back. “I was pointing out the obvious. I’ll be going now.”

We remain in the doorway watching him back out of the driveway and onto the road.

The second he disappears from sight, Cadoc slams the door. “Gather your things. We need to perform the ritual now.”

Twenty minutes later, I’m standing in the center of a salt ring surrounded by white candles. My shift trails along the ground. I wait patiently for the concoction Kirk has in the anointing oil.

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