But as I stuffed my belongings into a bag, the door swung open. Ronan stormed in, his face filled with an intensity I’d never seen before. His wolf loomed close to the surface, golden eyes blazing.
“Ayla,” he growled, his voice raw. “You know how much I love you, right?”
He reached for me, his claws brushing my arm, but the familiar scent of wild jasmine—the same perfume he’d given me for years—turned my stomach. I shoved him away, finally seeing the truth. He hadn’t loved me; he’d been chasing the ghost of Violet all along, using me as her shadow.
Before I could respond, a loud knock echoed through the quarter. The door opened, and Violet swept in, her presence commanding. She flung her arms around Ronan, her voice sweet and melodic. “Ronan! Why didn’t you wait for me? I thought we agreed to greet the pack together!”
She turned her icy blue gaze toward me, her smile as sharp as fangs. “Oh, you must be Ayla! Ronan told me how helpful you’ve been to him all these years. Thank you for looking after my mate.”
“Yes, this is the she-wolf I told you about,” Ronan said, “Ayla doesn’t have much, so I let her stay in the guest quarters here. It’s convenient for her to assist me with some pack business and… other tasks.”
“Ronan, why are you explaining this to me again? Do you think I’m some jealous pup who can’t tell the difference between duty and… distraction?” She laughs. “Besides, since Taryn and I share such a striking resemblance, it must feel like having me around when I’m not here. You must find it so comforting, Ronan. How considerate of her to play the part.”
She paused, her predatory grace making the room feel smaller. “In fact, I should thank you, Ayla. You’ve clearly been such a help to Ronan.”
“Speaking of help, Ayla, since you’re already familiar with the house—and with Ronan’s… needs—why don’t you do one last thing for me?” Her amber eyes narrowed, her wolf barely restrained. “Move my belongings into Ronan’s den. We’re to be mated soon, and it’s time everyone knows where I stand.”