Marcus's POV
Before I saw her, I could smell her. Vanilla and wildflowers, mixed with something new—something dark and strong that made my wolf pace inside me like a caged animal.
I watched Erik lead Lyra toward the group while I waited in the shadows of the door to the great hall. His big hand took her small one, but she walked with her chin up and her green eyes flashing with anger.
My chest got tight. When she was mad, she looked beautiful. Stop it, I told myself. She is Erik's partner. Your Alpha's mate.
My wolf didn't care about pack law, though.
Since she turned eighteen and a half months ago, he'd been interested in Lyra. Before Erik even noticed her. Before everyone knew about the mate bond. I'd kept my thoughts buried deep, locked away where no one could find them.
Being Beta meant that you were loyal above all else. Erik was my best friend, my Alpha, my brother in everything but blood.
