Page 85 of Mated to the Wolves

I turn to him, astonished by his insight. “People usually don’t notice my emotions at all.”

Fell clears his throat. “That was before last night.”

We’d talked about what the ritual might’ve changed.

“You were bigger in wolf form,” Kirk adds.

“The car is coming. Show time.”

Cadoc’s rumbled warning sets the tone for tonight. We’re a happy family learning to work together for the greater good.

Nothing to see here folks, look away.

One hour later

Tucked between Bo and Cadoc, I’m a shiny bit of fluff with a serene smile. We walk into the ballroom off the main entrance of the Jensen home.

Musicians play throughout the home. The strings, woodwinds, and brass blend beautifully, creating a magical atmosphere. I feel like I’ve stepped back in time for a royal ball.

Bo’s mother and father are holding court in front of us in a pretentious receiving line. I keep my back straight and step carefully, mentally chanting, be graceful.

Growing up with an older brother, I’d always been a bit of a tomboy. I cared more about my artwork than I ever did fashion or make-up, though rooming with Kez helped that immensely. I miss my old friend. Or the woman I thought was a friend.

Conflicted, thoughts of my old roommate bring melancholy. Shoving her out of my mind, I hold my head. Cadoc squeezes my hand.

“Mother. Father.” Bo flashes a blinding smile. He steps partially in front of me. He kisses his mother’s cheek and shakes his father’s hand.

“May I present my new clan, Cadoc, Kirk, Fell, and the lady of honor, Ylva.”

The petite brunette with glossy chestnut curls, a rich tan to her olive skin, and a flawless heart-shaped face with full red lips twisted in disgust as she peers at me. The scarlet mermaid gown is painted onto her curves, highlighting her generous bosom, tiny waist, and full hips.

She studies me with disdain filled doe-shaped, cold amber eyes. “Welcome to our home.”

“Thank you for having me, Mrs. Jensen.”

“Looks like we’ll be seeing more of you.” His father's appraisal is more unsettling. Calculated and thorough I sense him sizing me up and deciding how he can use me to push his agenda.

“I’m glad you could attend. I know what an exciting time it must be for you now.” His mother says the right things, but her smile is tinged with evil.

“It is. There are so many new things to learn and decisions to make. But we wouldn’t miss it.”

A glimmer of shock glints in her eyes. I can play the political game just fine. I simply chose to stay out of it before now.

“We shouldn’t hold the line up any longer. You understand.” Bo places a hand on the small of my back and leads us away from my future in-laws.

“I never knew you could be so civilized, Princess.”

“If you want me to keep this smile on my face, you’ll shut that irritating mouth of yours,” I keep my words low so we’re not overheard by others.

Cadoc snickers. Bo leans in and brushes his lips against my ear.

“Careful honey, others might hear you.”

I am not turned on by his husky tone.

Bo’s brother appears in front of us. “I’m shocked you decided to show.”

“Why Brooks? I’ve always enjoyed a party.”

---