Alexei’s POV

The drive back to the mansion was a blur of adrenaline and suppressed fury. Every time the image of my dead guard flashed in my mind, my claws threatened to shred the leather of the steering wheel. Mario wasn't just playing games; he was shedding pack blood to see if I would flinch. He was testing the fence, trying to see if I would reveal my mate.

By the time I pulled into the driveway, I was vibrating with the need to shift and run until my lungs burned. But then, a scent caught on the breeze, drifting from the open dining room window.

Maple syrup, warm skin,...