Lucian watches as Jack and Chloe disappear into the woods after shifting.
Their love is undeniable, their bond pure, unshaken by doubt. The way Jack looks at her, the way Chloe melts into his touch, it's what every wolf dreams of when they find their mate.
Lucian clenches his fists.
For some reason, he wishes Aiden were here.
Maybe it's foolish, maybe it's desperation, but a part of him wants to confirm, wants to prove that what is between him and Aiden is not just in his head. Not just some fleeting teen love.
If Aiden were here, Lucian would have tried shifting with him. Just to see. Just to know. Because to him... the way he feels towards him, it's not just light love story they share.
But Aiden isn't here.
And Lucian has no choice but to step forward with Anna, his so-called mate.
The ritual continues, the ceremonial fire casting flickering shadows across the gathered wolves.