Page 48 of Moon's Call

“The pack houses need better insulation,” Gregory, one of the construction workers, mentioned when she reached his table. “But we’re not sure how to retrofit without damaging the structures.”

“I know exactly what you need.” Lorelei grabbed a napkin and sketched quickly. “See? If we use this new eco-friendly material, we can preserve the aesthetic while improving efficiency.”

A deep chuckle behind her made her spine tingle. “Already revolutionizing our territory?” Draken’s arm slid around her waist.

“Someone has to drag you into the modern era.” She tilted her head back to smile at him. “These buildings have good bones, but they need more love.”

“And you’re just the Luna to give it to them.” His kiss on her temple sent shivers through her. “Though I hope you’ll save some of that love for me.”

“Always.” She turned back to Gregory. “Send the current blueprints to our office tomorrow. I’ll start drafting proposals.”

“Our office?” Draken asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Well, I was thinking we could possibly put my drafting table in your office” she smiled back at him.

He couldn’t hide the excitement in his eyes at the idea of sharing his space with her. “Anything for my Luna.”

As they moved through the crowd, Draken kept her close, his presence both possessive and proud. “You’re a natural at this,” he murmured. “I’ve never seen the pack so excited about changes before.”

“That’s because you were too stubborn to ask for help.” She poked his ribs playfully. “Good thing you got stuck with an architect for a Luna.”

His growl was playful. “Stuck? I think you mean blessed by the Moon Goddess.”

Draken extended his hand to Lorelei, his eyes gleaming with joy. “Dance with me, Luna?”

Lorelei placed her hand in his, letting him guide her to the center of the marble floor. His touch sent familiar tingles through her body.

The music shifted to something slow and romantic. Draken pulled her close, one hand splayed possessively across her lower back. His warmth seeped through the silk of her dress as they swayed together.

“What’s going on in that brilliant mind of yours?” Draken’s breath tickled her ear.

Lorelei smiled, resting her head against his chest. “Just thinking about how different everything is from what I expected. A week ago, I was worried about turning thirty. Now I’m a wolf shifter with earth magical powers, mated to an alpha prince.”

“Having second thoughts?” His grip tightened slightly.

“The opposite actually.” She lifted her head to meet his gaze. “It feels right here like I’ve finally found my true home. I’m really excited to start redesigning the pack houses, maybe add some sustainable features. And you have to admit, my drafting table will look absolutely perfect in your office.”

“Our office,” he corrected, spinning her in a graceful turn. “Though I might get distracted watching you work.”

“I think you’ll manage.” She smiled up at him. “I was also thinking that I could work remotely for my old firm too. Best of both worlds.”

His eyebrows drew together. “You still want to work for humans?”

“Hey, those humans pay me well and my connections might just help us out here too.” She poked his chest playfully. “And… if you’re not opposed to the idea, I was thinking of inviting my best friends over for sleepovers. This castle has way more space than my apartment.”

“Sleepovers?” He looked scandalized. “This is a royal residence, not a-“

“Perfect place for girl’s night?” She batted her eyelashes. “Come on, Alpha. You can hide in your wolf form if it bothers you that much.”

His laugh rumbled through his chest. “You’re lucky I love you.”

“I know.” She stretched up to kiss his jaw. “And I love that I don’t have to choose between my old life and this one. I get to keep both.”

“As long as you always come home to me.” His tone held that commanding alpha note that made her wolf want to roll over.

“Always,” she promised, letting him pull her closer as they continued to dance.

Later that night, the moment the door to Draken’s master suite clicked shut, Lorelei felt the air shift between them. His presence was overwhelming, as always, but tonight, something sparked in her that she couldn’t ignore. She faced him, her back against the door, and smirked. His eyes darkened, a low growl rumbling in his chest as he took a step toward her. But Lorelei wasn’t about to let him take control—not this time.

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