Page 34 of Wanderlust With Wolves

It left no doubt that he meant to claim me again.

If I let him.

I return to my cabin, calling for Belvedere as I step inside.

He greets me with a slow blink from the couch, sprawled out like he owns the place.

“You’re looking smug,” I murmur, scratching his ears as he purrs deeply.

I check my messages, my work emails, touching base with my freelance assignments.

My life outside of Avalon Vale is still waiting for me, still moving forward.

I remind myself that this is temporary, just a stop along the way.

Right?

I shake the thought off and grab my coat, heading toward the main lodge.

When I walk into the lodge, Luna is waiting.

She takes one look at me, and her knowing smile says everything.

I clear my throat, rolling my shoulders back. “What?”

Luna tilts her head, her golden eyes glinting with amusement. “You look…”

I raise a brow. “I look what?”

She hands me a basket, the one promised to participants of the Sweetheart Wilds Festival.

It’s overflowing with spa treats—scented oils, luxurious bath salts, soft robes.

But Luna’s grin tells me she knows I’ve already been thoroughly pampered.

I don’t confirm or deny.

I just huff and take the basket.

“Thanks,” I mutter.

We fall into easy conversation, chatting about the festival, the turnout, the way the human guests were charmed by the magic of Avalon Vale.

And then?—

I hear something that stops my heart cold.

It’s a casual remark, something Luna tosses out without thinking?—

Something about how wulver knots only appear for their mates.

Their mates.

My brain blanks.

I blink.

I swallow.

---