Pain's reaction was instant and expected, at least from me. I'd seen her crumble like this before, watched as her face collapsed in a mix of grief and relief, witnessed meltdown after meltdown.

But this time was complete. She sagged into Odette's arms while the family rose and surrounded her, the werewolves humming softly under their breath in a gentle song of welcome. It was one of the most amazing and touching moments I'd ever witnessed and it made me ripping mad.

Not ...