“Peter, the data speaks for itself. There are countless ways our infrastructure can optimize your pack’s profit margins if you integrate our systems. Our Nanobot processing speeds and encrypted logistics far outstrip anything the rival firms in the northern territories are offering.”

I watched the CEO of Tech Nanobot weigh my pitch. I’d been hunting this contract for months. After weeks of strategic maneuvers and back-and-forth negotiations, I knew the scent of a win was in the air.

A slow grin spread across Peter Lulo's face as he gave a sharp nod. “Let’s hunt,” he replied, extending a hand. I took it, my grip firm.

“I look forward to our shared expansion. If you’ll give me a moment, Vanessa Clarke will bring in the digital tablets for your signature. Then, my team will guide you through the server vaults so you can see the Stone Estate’s tech at its absolute peak.”

Vanessa processed the paperwork with her usual efficiency, and once the deal was sealed, I saw Peter off for the tour. Left alone, I reached for my phone, which had been buzzing with alerts throughout the meeting.

Madison.

My daughter was a constant whirlwind of chaos, but as my only pup, she was the heartbeat of my territory. She was the princess of the Stone Estate, and I was the Alpha of the den. For years, I’d tried to temper her reckless streaks, but her mother, Victoria, had always been an enabler of her indulgence.

‘Hosting a pack gathering by the Infinity Courtyard Pool today.’

I sighed, rubbing my temples. There was no reasoning with a Stone when their mind was set.

‘Understood. I’ll return to the estate by late afternoon. Do you and your guests require anything?’

I watched the ellipses dance on the screen.

‘We’re all set. Look.’

An image loaded. I smiled at the sight of Madison in a wide-brimmed sun hat, looking every bit like her mother elegant and sharp.

‘You look like a true Luna’s daughter, sweetie. Stay safe. See you soon. xx’

But then, another photo pinged through. My grip on the phone tightened until the casing groaned. My breath hitched as I stared at the screen.

It was Harper.

My daughter’s best friend. The girl who was supposed to be strictly off-limits.

From the second Harper had stepped back into my territory, a primal hunger had ignited in my gut—a craving to claim and protect that I hadn't felt in decades. I knew it was a violation of the unspoken laws of hospitality, but Goddess, she was breathtaking.

In the photo, her hair was pulled back, exposing the vulnerable, elegant curve of her throat. Her black bikini clung to her like a second skin, highlighting every lethal curve.

My mouth went dry with the urge to taste her.

I’d known her as a pup lanky and quiet. But she had transformed into a stunning brunette with eyes like the deep Atlantic and a spirit that called to my inner wolf.

Thinking back to our encounter in the kitchen seeing her reach for a glass, her tank top riding up to reveal the small of her back, those shorts framing her perfectly sculpted form my beast stirred. My blood ran hot, and a heavy, persistent ache settled in my groin.

I wanted her. I wanted to pin her to that marble counter and mark her as mine until the whole world knew who she belonged to.

The intensity of the thought was almost repulsive, yet my wolf snarled in agreement. I needed a release. I needed to drown this fire.

As if sensing my arousal, my office door swung open. A tall blonde with blood-red lips entered, her scent—heavy perfume and desperation—filling the room. Natalie Brooks. She looked stunning in her sapphire dress, but she wasn't the one I was picturing.

“Natalie. What brings you to my den?”

She smirked, pushing my chair back and sliding onto my lap.

“Why the radio silence, Dom?” Her thick accent was a low purr as she leaned back, tracing the line of my jaw. “I got tired of waiting for your summons.”

“I’m in the middle of a merger, Natalie. I don’t have time for this.”

She pouted a look Madison had mastered, and one that had long since lost its power over me.

“I thought you’d be craving a hunt,” she whined.

I exhaled sharply, my irritation peaking. I gripped her waist and stood her up, firmly removing her from my lap.

“I was clear with you, Natalie. No strings. No emotions.”

Her eyes narrowed into slits. “We’ve been together for months”

“Yes, and as I stated on night one: this is strictly physical. You agreed to those terms. Coming to my corporate headquarters is a breach of our arrangement.”

“You’re mine, Dominic,” she snapped, crossing her arms. “What is wrong with you? Don’t I satisfy the Alpha?”

The conversation was a dead end. I had a four o'clock briefing and a sudden, urgent need to be elsewhere.

“Vanessa!” I barked. The door opened instantly.

“Yes, Alpha Stone?”

“Please escort Ms. Brooks to the garage.”

Natalie’s jaw dropped. “You’re throwing me out? Like a stray? You can’t do this!”

I leaned back, watching her with cold, detached amusement. Her rage was making her scent bitter. It was definitely time to end this.

“I assure you, I can. I appreciate the time we spent, Natalie, but we’re finished. I wish you luck in your next pack.”

I had to be icy. I never intended to cause pain, but I wouldn't be tethered by expectations I hadn't agreed to. In the eyes of these women, I was always the villain the cold-hearted Sire Canadian but I’d been honest from the start.

“You’ll regret this!” she spat, her eyes flashing.

“Is that a threat?” I asked, a dark amusement curling my lip.

“A promise. The Moon sees everything.”

She stormed out, leaving Vanessa standing there with a raised eyebrow.

“Alpha, if I’m going to have to manage your discarded conquests... I’m going to need a significant bump in my compensation.”

I laughed, the sound dry. “Is that right?”

“Hazard pay, sir. These females are getting fierce. Shall I fetch your coffee?”

“Please. And I’ll review your salary.”

As she left, I found myself alone with my thoughts again. I scrolled back to Harper’s photo. Her smile was like a lure.

The idea of young, unproven males circling her at my pool made my hackles rise. They were of age, yes, but the thought of some pup putting his hands on Harper sent a wave of possessive rage through me.

Get a grip, Stone. She’s your daughter’s friend.

“Sir, your four o’clock called to reschedule,” Vanessa announced from the doorway.

“Cancel everything. An emergency has come up at the estate. I’m going home.”

Vanessa didn't blink. She knew that look. “I’ll handle the calendar, sir.”

I picked up my phone. “Paul,” I said to my driver, “get the SUV to the front. Now.”

It was time to return to my den and check on my guests. After all, an Alpha must ensure his territory is... secure.

The South Beach sun was a golden weight on my skin as I lay back on a white lounge chair by the Infinity Courtyard Pool. I loved the Canadian summer—crisp air but a sun that toasted you to the bone. Back at my father's small territory in Savannah, the humidity was a suffocating blanket. Here, I could breathe.

This summer was my reward for years of grinding at St Lanka University. Here, I wasn't the girl who’d been dumped by Logan Pierce. I could be anyone.

Madison had invited a pack of her local friends over, and as they splashed in the crystalline water, their laughter echoing off the glass walls of the estate, I felt a strange sense of detachment.

They were all "Silver Spoon" wolves heirs to tech fortunes and vast territories. They never had to hunt for their own meals or work three jobs to pay for tuition. My parents had sacrificed everything for me, especially after my mother passed. I worked twice as hard because I intended to build a legacy that would let my father retire in luxury. I didn't take a single cent for granted.

“Are you going to grow roots in that chair or actually touch the water?” Madison asked, her shadow falling over me.

“I’m communing with the sun, Madi. Leave me be,” I murmured, keeping my eyes closed.

“At least you’re partaking in the spirits,” she smirked.

I lifted my margarita. “Tequila and UV rays. It’s a balanced diet.”

“Needs more hot males.”

I laughed. “I can handle my own needs, thanks. It’s the twenty-first century—females don't need a mate to have a good time.”

“We need to change that. I want you to meet someone,” she insisted.

I shook my head firmly. “No. I’m not ready to scent-match anyone.”

“Harper, it’s been a month! You’re mourning a pup like Logan when you should be hunting. He was a bottom-feeder.”

I sat up, eyes flashing. “Thanks for the sensitivity training, Madi.”

She sighed, sitting on the edge of my lounger. “I just want the old Harper back. The one who wasn't afraid to bite.”

“I’m happy, Madi. I’m just... settling.”

“Whatever. Just stop lying to yourself,” she said, rolling her eyes.

“Focus on your own hunt,” I teased, nodding toward a group of guys by the bar.

“I’m glad you’re here, Harper,” Madison said softly, her voice uncharacteristically sincere. “I missed our summers.”

I smiled back. “I missed them too. But the matchmaking is still a no-go.”

“Fine, fine.” She laughed, hopping up. “I’m going back to the redhead. He’s been staring at you, but since you’re being a hermit, I’m going to go claim him.”

“Have fun,” I laughed, watching her dive back in.

But peace was short-lived. A shadow fell over me again—not Madison’s. I looked up to see a built, tanned wolf with a cocky grin. Rafael Vega.

“Well, hello there, gorgeous.”

I didn't even sit up. “No.”

“No?”

“Exactly. Whatever Madison told you, I’m not interested. I’m here for the sun, not the company.”

“She said you liked the chase. I’m a very fast runner.”

Goddess, give me strength. “I’m not playing hard to get, Rafael. I’m just... not interested. Honestly.”

“I like a female with teeth,” he said, leaning over me.

I stood up, grabbing my sarong. “I’m done for the day.”

I turned and headed toward the house. I couldn't deal with the frat-wolf energy anymore.

“Harper, where are you going?” Madison called out. “Don’t be a buzzkill!”

I ignored her, sliding open the glass doors to the kitchen. I stripped off my sun hat, letting out a long, frustrated breath.

“I can’t believe her”

“Where’s the fire, beautiful?” Rafael’s voice came from behind me. He’d followed me inside, and the smell of alcohol on his breath was strong.

I spun around. “Rafael, I said no. Please leave.”

He chuckled, stumbling slightly as he closed the distance. “You’re just shy. I know your type. You just need a real wolf to show you a good time.”

“Get out of my face,” I snapped, backing away until my hips hit the marble island.

“I’m one of the top-ranked bachelors in the South Beach pack,” he bragged, trapping me against the counter. “You’d be lucky to have me.”

“Stop!” I yelled as he lunged forward, trying to bury his face in my neck. My heart was racing—not with attraction, but with a cold, sharp fear.

“I know about your ex. I’ll treat you better,” he panted.

“You don’t know anything about me!” I screamed, trying to shove him back. He was stronger, his Alpha-influence beginning to press down on me. He grabbed my wrists, pinning them to the counter.

Desperation took over. I brought my knee up with everything I had, catching him squarely between the legs.

“You bitch!” he roared, his hand coming across in a sharp blur, stinging my cheek.

“Let me go!” I shrieked.

“Stop fighting me, mi amor,” he growled, his hand clamping over my mouth. “I’ll make you forget everything.”

“What the hell is going on in my kitchen?”

The voice was like a thunderclap.

Dominic stood in the doorway, his silhouette blocking out the sun. His aura was terrifying—vast, dark, and lethal.

Rafael didn't even look back. “Mind your business, old man. We’re busy.”

Dominic’s eyes turned a glowing, molten amber. His fists were white at his sides.

“Excuse me?” Dominic’s voice was a low, vibrating threat. “I suggest you release her... this instant.”

Rafael scoffed, finally turning. “You heard me”

Before he could finish, Dominic was across the room in a blur of speed no human could follow. He grabbed Rafael by the throat, hoisting him off the ground with one hand.

“I am the Alpha of this Estate,” Dominic snarled, his face inches from Rafael’s. “And if you don’t vanish from my territory within sixty seconds, I will ensure you never hunt again. Do you understand me, pup?”

The sheer power coming off Dominic made the air vibrate. Rafael’s face went pale. He nodded frantically.

Dominic threw him toward the door just as security arrived. Within seconds, Rafael was being hauled away.

I collapsed to the floor, my legs giving out as the adrenaline crashed. I stayed there, gasping for air, my hand pressed to my stinging cheek. If Dominic hadn't come home...

“Harper?”

His voice was soft now. I looked up, and even through my tears, the sight of him made my blood sing. He had saved me. And as he reached down to help me up, I felt a heat that had nothing to do with the Canadian sun.

The instant I breached the threshold of the Stone Estate and scented the distress in the air, my inner wolf surged to the surface. I had caught the faint, jagged echoes of Harper’s plea for help the moment the front door hissed open, but seeing the scene with my own eyes turned my blood to molten lead.

Rafael Vega had her pinned against the Tech-Design cabinetry. Every predatory move he made toward her caused me to see a blinding, crimson haze.

“What the f*ck is going on in my den?” I snarled, my pupils blowing wide until my eyes were nearly solid obsidian. I wanted to shift right there to let my claws slide out and tear his throat from his neck, watching his life spill onto the marble floor.

I wasn't entirely sure why my reaction was so feral. I’d protect any female under my roof, yes. But this... this felt like a violation of my own soul. It was personal.

The pup looked over his shoulder at me, a cocky, drunken sneer on his face. “Mind your business, old man.”

Old man? He truly was begging for a shallow grave. The younger generation of the South Beach pack had lost all sense of hierarchy.

“Excuse me?” I sneezed the words, my voice vibrating with Alpha authority. “I think you need to vanish... now.”

He let out a short, sharp bark of a laugh. That was his final mistake. I didn't wait for him to comply.

“You heard me”

Before he could finish his sentence, I bridged the gap in a blur of motion. I slammed him into the floor, my hand crushing his windpipe as I stared into his pathetic, wide eyes.

“I am the Alpha of this territory,” I growled, the sound rattling the glassware in the cabinets. “If you aren't out of my sight in ten seconds, I will make sure your future in this pack—and this country—is extinguished. Do YOU understand ME?”

Pure, unadulterated terror flooded Rafael’s scent. He finally realized he hadn't just crossed a line; he’d jumped into a volcano.

Cole Bennett and Ryder Knox burst into the kitchen, their own wolves bristling. They were my lead security Enforcers; they didn't need a verbal command. They grabbed Rafael by his collar and dragged his pathetic form toward the gates.

I wanted his lineage. I wanted to know which Beta raised such a disrespectful cur. They would all feel the weight of my displeasure for what he’d dared to do to Harper.

Harper…

I turned to her. She was on her knees, her small frame shaking as she tried to pull oxygen into her lungs. She looked fragile, yet there was a spark of defiance in her blue eyes that called to me.

“Are you alright?” I asked. My voice, usually like granite, softened as she looked up. My hand went out instinctively to steady her as she stood on trembling legs.

“I think so,” she exhaled, her scent finally losing that sharp spike of fear. “I’m so sorry, Alpha Stone—”

“How many times must I command you to call me Dominic?” A low, involuntary rumble of a laugh escaped me. The way her cheeks flushed a deep, sunset pink made my wolf pace restlessly. I wanted to pull her against me and never let go.

“I’m sorry—Dominic,” she whispered, her voice like velvet. “I... I should go.”

She brushed past me, fleeing down the corridor, but every instinct I possessed screamed at me to follow.

My obsession with her was a danger to the pack's stability, yet being near her felt like the only thing that made sense since the divorce.

Harper

“Wait.” His voice was a physical tether, stopping me in my tracks. I turned, watching the Sire Canadian close the distance between us. His jaw was set in a hard line, his shoulders broad and imposing in his dark suit.

“What’s wrong—”

“I cannot let you walk away while you're still radiating distress. Are you certain you’re unharmed?” His concern was heavy, dark, and utterly intoxicating.

“I’m fine, really. Thank you for checking. You didn't have to.”

He stepped into my personal space, his brows knitting together. “Why wouldn't I have to?”

I searched for an answer, but my brain felt like it was short-circuiting under his gaze. “I know you're only worried because I’m Madison’s guest. I appreciate the rescue, but you shouldn't feel obligated to babysit me—”

“You are not an obligation, Harper.” He cut me off, moving so close my back met the cold wall of the hallway. “Ensuring your safety is my only priority.”

“Thanks.” It was all I could manage.

Then, he did something I didn't expect. He reached out, pulling me into a firm, grounding embrace. I’d never been held by an Alpha like him before. His chest was like a wall of warm muscle, and for the first time in weeks, I felt truly safe.

“Dominic–” I whispered against his shoulder. I felt him tilt his head, inhaling the scent of my hair—a deep, possessive pull—before he slowly retreated to look me in the eye.

“No female in my territory deserves to be treated like prey, Harper. I will always be your shield. You deserve to be worshipped like a Luna, not handled like property.”

I was stunned into silence. Before I could process the weight of his words, he turned and walked toward his private study, his movements sharp and controlled.

Dominic Stone hadn't just saved me from a harasser; he’d saved my spirit.

I watched the study door close, my heart thumping a frantic rhythm. I eventually turned toward the stairs, catching sight of Madison flirting with a group of wolves as if nothing had happened.

“Madison,” I said, my voice tight. “A word.”

“Oh, Goddess!” she squealed, turning around. “There you are! Did you and Rafael hit it off? I knew he’d be your type!”

She winked, and for a second, I actually saw red.

“Hit it off? Are you out of your mind?” I snapped.

She blinked, confused. “Well, where is he? Did he chicken out?”

I felt a surge of genuine resentment. This was on her. She never listened; she just pushed her own agenda.

“Your father had to physically remove him from the house,” I said, my hands on my hips. “So I’d check the front gate.”

The male she was talking to looked startled and immediately started checking his phone—likely to see if his friend was still breathing.

“Harper,” Madison said, her tone dropping. “What happened? I thought he was a catch.”

“He was a predator, Madison. He didn't understand the word ‘no.’ I can’t believe you’d tell someone I was interested when I explicitly told you I wasn't.”

The guy she was with signaled for the others to leave. Madison watched them go, looking more upset about her party ending than the fact that her best friend was almost assaulted.

I stormed up the stairs to my room, but she was hot on my heels.

“What the hell happened? They’re saying you had my dad banish him for no reason!” she yelled as I threw open my door.

“Seriously?” I spun around, incredulous. “You’ve known me my whole life. Does that sound like me? He attacked me, Madison. He tried to force a claim after I told him a dozen times to back off.”

She crossed her arms, a stubborn glint in her eyes. “I find that hard to believe. He’s from a high-ranking family, Harper. Very respectable.”

“Is that right?” I laughed bitterly. “Go ask the Alpha. He’s the one who heard the struggle. He can give you the play-by-play.”

Madison marched out, slamming the door. I didn't care. She was choosing social status over my safety.

Looking at her now, I realized how much the divorce had truly changed her. She’d become self-centered, obsessed with her high-society image. She was a different person.

I felt a wave of guilt, though. I didn't want to lose her, but I couldn't keep letting her put me in danger. A few minutes later, there was a soft knock. I opened the door to find Madison standing there, her mascara running.

“Harper—” She sobbed. “Dad told me everything. I’m so sorry. I’m a terrible friend.”

I let out a long sigh. “Madison, I told you no. Why won't you just listen? After Logan, my walls are up for a reason.”

She nodded, wiping her eyes. “I know. I f*cked up. I didn't think Rafael was such a monster. You should have clawed his eyes out.”

“I was going to, but your dad beat me to it,” I teased, trying to break the tension.

“I just want you to find your spark again, Harper. I don't want that human-raised pup Logan to be the last thing you remember of love.”

There was a flicker of the old Madison in her eyes. I wasn't ready to fully forgive her, but I wasn't ready to leave either.

The Next Morning

For two days, I played a game of cat and mouse with Dominic. I was too embarrassed that he’d seen me in such a vulnerable state. Yet, the memory of his arms around me wouldn't leave my head. The scent of cedar and ozone followed me into my dreams.

I heard the front door open and looked out the window. Dominic was walking to his SUV, looking devastating in a tailored three-piece suit that barely contained his power.

Goddess, he’s lethal.

As if he could sense my gaze, his eyes—hidden behind dark lenses—drifted toward my window. A slow, knowing smile touched his lips before he slid into the vehicle.

I let out a breath I didn't know I was holding. Safe. Another morning without an awkward encounter.

“Harper?” Madison’s voice came from the door. “You coming?”

I turned, trying to look busy. “Just getting ready, Madi.”

“Sure you are. You look like a pup caught in the meat locker. You’ve had that look since we were kids.”

I groaned. “Whatever. What’s the plan?”

“Beach day. South Beach is calling. We need to soak up some rays.”

I hesitated. “I’m still annoyed with you, Madi.”

“I know, I know. I’m sorry. Please don't let a stray like Rafael ruin our summer.”

“He tried to assault me, Madi. It’s not just a ‘stray’ issue.”

“I know!” she snapped, then softened. “I’m sorry. Truly. You're right. I've been a brat. Let me make it up to you.”

I sighed. Against my better judgment, I agreed. “Fine. Ten minutes.”

Four Hours Later

The beach had been a blur of cocktails and sunshine. By the time we stumbled back through the Stone Estate’s front doors, we were both pleasantly buzzed and laughing at nothing.

“So, Eleanor Hayes wants to grab coffee and go shopping. You in?” Madison asked, swinging her keys.

“I’ll pass,” I said, leaning against the banister. “I want to call my dad and shower. You go ahead.”

She shrugged, already on her phone. “Your loss!”

I headed to my room, my stomach growling. I hadn't eaten all day. I ordered some takeout on my phone and headed for the shower.

Stepping into the spray, I tried to wash away the thoughts of Dominic, but the hot water only made my skin more sensitive. My mind wandered to his lips, his hands, the way he looked in that suit. My fingers trailed down my body, imagining it was him...

“Dominic—” I whispered, my voice lost in the steam as I finally found my release.

I finished my shower just as my phone pinged. My food was here. I threw on a silk black nightie—not the most modest choice, but I was alone—and ran downstairs to grab the delivery.

I froze at the bottom of the steps.

Standing there, holding my takeout bag, wasn't a delivery driver. It was Dominic.

“Hungry?” he smirked, the shadow of the foyer making his amber eyes glow.

“I—um—yeah,” I stammered, taking a step down.

He held out the bag. As I reached for it, his fingers brushed against mine, sending a jolt of pure electricity through my frame.

“You’ve been hiding from me, Harper.”

My heart hammered against my ribs. “I wasn't.”

“Liar,” he chuckled softly. “Every time I try to scent you out, you’ve vanished into another room.”

He took a step closer, and I instinctively backed into the stairs. His presence was overwhelming.

“What do you want, Dom?” I whispered.

“Nothing much... just this.” He reached out, his hand moving toward my face. I flinched slightly, but he only gently tucked a damp strand of hair behind my ear.

My breath hitched.

“There,” he murmured, his fingers lingering on my jaw. He tilted my chin up, forcing me to meet his gaze. “You never have to hide from me, Harper. If you need anything... anything at all... you know where my office is. I’m here to serve your needs.”

The way he said needs made it clear he wasn't just talking about takeout.