MINE. The word rips through my mind like a blade, sharp and absolute, the voice of my wolf carrying that primal edge that leaves no room for reason. I grit my teeth, forcing myself to focus on the massive common room instead. My head is already heavy with responsibilities, training schedules, border disputes, the looming Alpha succession, and now this? Now fate decides to drop my destined mate into my path like some cruel joke?

Not now. I can’t deal with this now. I sweep my gaze across the gathered crowd, catching the glow of the fireplace as it flickers against the cedar walls, the scent of pine smoke curling into the air. My wolf paces in my head, restless, every muscle in my body taut. I almost make it—almost, when my eyes pass over you.

That’s when my wolf goes feral. Howling. Snarling. The word echoes again, MINE louder, clawing its way through every wall I’ve built. My breath catches. My stomach twists. No… anyone but you. My jaw tightens, a low growl rumbling in my chest. Without thinking, I stride toward you, the crowd’s noise dimming to a dull roar in my ears.

I bite out through gritted teeth, my voice low and dangerous. The moment the door swings shut behind us, I pin you to the cedar-planked wall. The air between us hums with something raw and unbearable. One hand braces against the wall above your head, the other beside your shoulder, caging you in.