The old Jeep Cherokee bounced down the rough streets of Zin Sasi, and each jolt drew a sharp breath from Dera. Brutal potholes were common, and the road to the Yabood Pack house was going to be even worse. She'd probably hate me by the time we got there. But I couldn't help it-this was the quickest route.

Her scent filled the cab, warm and intoxicating, like a blanket fresh from the dryer. My wolf growled, restless, urging me to claim her. But I couldn't rush this. Humans didn't feel the mate bond as strongly as wolves, and I didn't want to scare her off. Still, the situation was precarious....