females—mere humans, no less—into a pack of countless unmated werewolves. It is the equivalent of suicide. If a wolf even looks at those humans the wrong way, Sera will not hesitate to shed blood. All Mother, help us all if our males cannot control themselves. ~ Jackson Jacobs
S era sighed as they pulled in front of the pack house. Everyone was there, smiling and waving in anticipation of their arrival.
“Your father has warned the wolves, right?” Sera asked into her mate’s mind for the billionth time.
“Si.”
“And they know the punishment for revealing what we are or harming them in any way?”
Koda chuckled, pulling her closer to press a kiss to her temple. “Si, mio amore. They understand. They will not reveal anything unless we tell them otherwise. It will be all right.”
She leaned into him, allowing his warmth to soothe her. She climbed out of the Jeep and was immediately swept up in hugs and welcomes from her pack. She gave them smiles and gentle embraces, allowing their wolves the comfort of their alpha’s touch.
“Everyone,” Sera said, walking back over to her friends, who stood awkwardly by the Jeeps with their bags clutched close, “these are my best friends from California. This is Richard Sharp and his twin sister, Faith. Also, there is Ally Baker, Cameron Hogan, and Damion Hernandez.”
The pack quickly took to the humans, and Sera smiled to herself as she watched them.
Koda’s strong arms wrapped around her waist from behind, and he kissed her ear. “As I told you, there is nothing to worry about.”
“I know,” she said, turning in his arms. “Thank you for this. They are an important part of my life, and I really needed them to know I am safe and happy here.”
Koda leaned down and pressed a butterfly kiss to her succulent lips. “Just say the words, my love, and you shall have all your heart desires.”
“Anything?”
He nodded and smiled.
“Okay. Then tell me what you’re hiding from me, this so-called surprise.”
His smile dropped a fraction, but he quickly recovered. “It’s for our bonding ceremony.”
She narrowed her eyes but turned away, not finding the energy to argue.
“Jackson!” Koda called, noticing the setting sun. “Please show our friends to the guest cabin next to the main house. Caressa will stay with you and tend to anything you may need. It’s been a long day for us all. There are not many rules here, but there is one that cannot be broken. You must stay indoors at night and never wander into the woods alone. We live in a very dangerous, dense forest, and if you go in alone and get hurt or lost, we may not be able to help you. Other than that, goodnight, everyone.”
Sera waved her goodbyes, then followed Koda up to their room. She threw herself onto the bed and buried her face in the pillows.
Koda sat next to her, rubbing small circles on her back. “What are you doing?” he asked, laughing at her antics.
Sera mumbled into the pillows.
“What?”
“I’m inhaling your scent.”
He chuckled. “Why sniff the pillow when you have the actual thing right next to you?”
“I’m too lazy.”
He gave her an impatient growl, pulled her onto his broad chest, and buried his face in her long white hair.
She giggled and rested her cheek on his shoulder.
“Are you okay?” he
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