Harper and Stella both turned around to look at the woman who was asking them. She had fair and delicate features, giving off an impression of fragility that easily triggered a man’s protective instincts. Stella didn’t know her, but Harper recognized her at first glance. She was Preston’s first love who he was hugging in the social media photo.

Harper was taken aback when Preston brought his first love to the mating ceremony. It seemed like he was acknowledging her identity and ...