Page 35 of Stripe Theory

More guests filtered in – a mix of shifters and humans that would have been unthinkable just months ago. Alora recognizedfaces from the research department mingling with members of Rehan’s pride. Her parents had sent their regrets, tied up with their own research, but promised to visit soon.

Dr. Lee from neurology was deep in conversation with a young tiger shifter about brain chemistry. Two of Hunter’s security team challenged some visiting wolves to what appeared to be a very intense game of charades. Even the normally standoffish biochem department had turned up, though they huddled in their usual corner.

A ripple of awareness passed through the shifters moments before Rehan appeared in the doorway. His imposing presence drew every eye, but Alora noticed how his gaze softened when it landed on Sierra. His sister’s condition weighed on him, though he tried to hide it.

Then his eyes found Alora, and something in her chest did a complicated little flip. His expression shifted from confusion to resignation to something warmer as he took in the decorations.

“Surprise?” She gave a little wave. “Before you say anything, this was totally Maya’s idea. I only supplied the terrible puns.”

Rehan crossed the room with that predatory grace that still made Alora’s breath catch. Up close, she noticed the faint shadows under his eyes – he’d been pushing himself too hard lately and worried about Sierra.

“I distinctly remember saying no parties,” he said, but his tone lacked heat.

“Technically, you said no ‘elaboratecelebrations.’” Alora gestured to the decorations. “This is purely simple. Basic, even. Practically austere.”

“Austere.” His gaze traveled pointedly from the tiger-striped banners to the twinkling lights to the suspiciously large cake box Maya was attempting to hide behind a potted plant. “Is that what we’re calling this?”

“Would you prefer ‘minimalist’?”

The corner of his mouth twitched. “How long did you spend thinking up tiger puns?”

“That’s classified information, Mr. Kedi.” She grinned. “Though I do have a whole list saved for future use. Consider it incentive to keep funding my research.”

“Threatening me at my own party?”

“I prefer to think of it as positive reinforcement.”

A genuine smile started to form – and died as security alarms blared to life. Red emergency lights bathed the festivities in crimson, turning the cheerful decorations sinister. Rehan’s partial shift was instant, eyes blazing amber as his claws extended.

Hunter burst through the door, expression grim. “Security systems are failing systematically. Someone’s?—”

The main doors exploded inward.

TWENTY-EIGHT

Through the smoke strode a familiar figure that made Alora’s blood run cold. Damian Vexley, Leeta’s right hand, led a team of heavily armed mercenaries into the room. His expensive suit seemed chosen for maximum dramatic effect, and his smile held all the warmth of a shark’s.

“Don’t stop the party on my account.” His gaze locked onto Sierra. “I brought party favors.”

Rehan moved with liquid speed, positioning himself between Damian and the party guests. His focus zeroed in on Sierra, a growl rumbling deep in his chest. The sound vibrated through Alora’s bones.

“Get the others to safety,” Hunter barked to the security team. His own partial shift rippled beneath his skin as he coordinated evacuation routes.

Alora’s mind raced as she noticed the mercenaries’ movements. They weren’t attacking randomly. Each soldier carried what looked like modified weapons – sleek devices with glowing collection chambers.

“They’re taking samples,” she whispered to Maya, pulling her behind an overturned table. “Look at their targeting patterns. They’re focusing on specific people.”

Maya’s eyes narrowed. “The ones who’ve shown compatibility signs.”

Understanding hit Alora like a punch. “They’re harvesting genetic material from shifters with human connections.” Her gaze snapped to Sierra. “That’s why he’s here – Sierra is his perfect test subject. He’s using her to study the virus’s progression.”

Damian’s voice cut through the chaos. “I see you’ve recovered nicely, darling.” His words dripped false concern as he addressed Sierra. “The virus data from your case was fascinating. Though I must say, the accelerated strain is showing even more promising results.”

Sierra’s face went white. The younger shifters around her growled, instinctively moving to shield her.

“You son of a—” Hunter started forward, but Rehan’s arm blocked him.

“Protect,” Rehan ordered, his voice deepening with his partial shift.

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