Richard's POV.

I couldn't help but gaze at Serena's face as she slept. I gently brushed a strand of hair away, and her beauty struck me once again.

She was the most beautiful she-wolf I ever laid my eyes on.

Why did she push people away? Why wouldn't she let me care for her? I longed to show her my love, to prove how much she meant to me, but she kept me at arm's length.

As I kissed her hands, I was taken aback.

I stared at her, then back at her hands, confusion etched on my face.

Her hands felt normal, not a hint of fever. How could...