Wolf Endangered (Willow's Forbidden Pack #2) - Avery Song Page 0,209

us.

We were a team, a group of fucked-up individuals with tainted pasts, and we were okay with that.

Having Onyx and then Willow join didn't change a thing, but it brought more enemies onto our plate, and I could tell the rise in load was taking a strain on our dynamic.

A strain, but it wasn't going to force us to crumble.

Willow was a priority because it was becoming crystal clear that she was being targeted on purpose. Her life seemed to be filled with the constant battle of being targeted for some sort of insecurity or lack she had, but now it was growing to be the opposite.

From neglected, mocked, and hidden behind her male counterpart to a female badass in the spotlight of the world, praised for her bravery and determination. And now she could be whoever she wished to be in the public eye.

I wondered if she could see how empowering she was becoming to those on the shifter side of our crazy life. If she understood the role she was playing and how these sudden changes were shifting our community for the better.

Many would think her authenticity was going to make things harder for us shifters, but the world was doing just fine acknowledging the presence of witches and magic users in general.

Only a matter of time before they acknowledge shifters, fae, and other supernatural creatures.

Reaching downstairs, I grabbed the carton of milk, noticing it was half empty. With a shrug, I poured the rest in the glass pot and began to warm it up with just my temperature, which rose swiftly.

It had to be four in the morning, and with the winter season, the sun would be rising far sooner than usual. I wanted to see the sunrise in my wolf form again. It was something I used to do with my ex-mate, but long before her passing, it came to a stop.

Not because I didn't enjoy it anymore, but watching the sunrise once made me feel like I was invincible in this world of chaos, and I didn't carry that same mindset anymore.

I wasn't unbeatable. I was merely passing through this world and hoping my purpose would come along the way.

The rising steam and aroma of the dairy beverage confirmed it was ready, and I lowered the pot to the stove before opening the cabinet to stare at the row of mugs. The sight left me lost in the past, remembering those late nights and early mornings after hours of sex.

I lowered my arm as I continued to stare at the array of mugs, trying my best not to get lost in the overwhelming emotion of sadness.

Why did I have to fail you? Why...was I so weak that I couldn't push through that controlled force? Do you hate me where you are? Would you...be mad if I moved on?

"You're going to burn your milk at this rate, Jayce."

The tender voice tugged me out of my thoughts, and I stiffened at the feel of a slim body pressing against my side. My eyes lowered to see Willow go on her tiptoes to grab not one, but two mugs.

I was shocked - and a little impressed - that she was awake at this time. Neo had to have enjoyed every bit of her, and from the obvious hickeys, bruises, and bite marks on her flesh, it was clear he’d definitely had his way with her.

And she somehow survived and was awake two hours later? Our Rebel Flower was a fighter.

"Rebel Flower now? You guys love to give our woman nicknames, huh?" my wolf muttered, though it was clear he was half asleep.

"Willow," I finally responded, realizing I'd been standing in my spot for an extra minute. She was already holding the handle of the pot and pouring the steamed milk into the mugs. She didn't hesitate to wash and place the pot on the rack before taking both our mugs to the island.

I couldn't help but glance at her body; the moonlight shining from the kitchen window made her look like a goddess descending from the heavens. Even all bruised with her delicate, lightly tanned skin and those amazing tattoos all across her flesh, I couldn't be more attracted to her.

I don't know why it was these moments when she lacked clothes and I could witness the raw vulnerability in her small frame that my mind reminded me of my feelings for this woman.

I'd been so lost in the emotions of my past that I was clearly missing