THE GIRL WITH THE WOLF MARK

c settled against her skin like cool water, surprisingly comfortable despite its ceremonial purpose.

way. At nineteen, her stepbrother had grown into his father's build broad shouldered and impos

c space. There was relief in his voice, raw and undisguised. "I was worried I'd hav

colored eyes unblinking. "Were you afraid, M

ing," he snapped, too quickly. "Besides, the men usually return a

y, smoothing the dress over her hips. "That onl

his composure. "It's a tradit

rning to the cracked mirror propped against

ne dress emphasizing her slender frame, and her eyes, one blood-red and one emerald green, staring back

d across his face. "Look, I didn't " he began, then stopped himself. The brief vulnerability vanished, replaced by his usu

hed, turning from the mirror to face him. "Tell me, broth

anger replaced it. "You were never my sister," he hissed

re I know exactly how pleased you are with my fate.

took a threatening step forward, fis

boomed from downstairs. "

ters," he said, his voice dropping to a venomous whisper. "They say the alpha, Rvan

e hallway, leaving the door open behind him-a final r

n, her reflection showed not fear but determination. Whatever awaited her beyond this nig