“The reason I called you here today,” Shawn began, clasping his hands like a shrewd businessman, “is to discuss your connection with Mia.”

He didn’t even try to ease it.

“Our Pack elders believe the best way to calm the rumors swirling around is for our two Packs to unite through marriage. A formal engagement will show the world that what happened at the gala was nothing more than a spat between mates.”

“Bond?” Richard scoffed, clearly insulted. “You must be joking. I’m not here to playhouse. I’m here for business. And she—” his eyes flicked to me with visible distaste, “—isn’t even my type.”

Shawn waved a dismissive hand....