I paused, trying to process Ashley's words. Slowly, I locked my gaze with hers. She couldn't be serious.

"You're kidding, right?", My voice was calm, but my wolf stirred uneasily within me.

"Do I look like I am?" Ashley retorted, her voice firm and serious.

I exhaled, my claws threatening to extend as frustration built inside me.

Reject Nicholas? The very thought felt unnatural, like severing a bond that was imprinted into my soul. My mind raced, my wolf growling at the mere idea. Why ...