As Blade prepared to approach the boisterous werewolves who were merrily drinking imported wine, a hand gently touched his shoulder. It was his mother, Queen Selene. He had invited her to the party at Bella's insistence, as she missed her dearly, and he wanted to bring her happiness.

Blade glanced down at the dress he had carefully chosen for his mother to wear. "I told you not to cross my path," he said, his voice tinged with irritation.

Selene sighed softly, reaching out to ...