Preston Hale caught the inquisitive flicker in her amber eyes but didn't recoil, responding with a magnanimous nod of his head.

"Of course, my lady. I can escort you to the Alpha's inner sanctum now."

Yet, Madison Clarke hesitated, her fingers twisting the hem of her cloak. She took a step back toward the torch-lit hall. "Actually, forget it. The trek through the lower valley has ruined my appearance. I am not fit for an Alpha's presence. I should return to my den, wash the scent of travel away, and change into my silks."

"As you wish," Preston agreed, a polite smile masking his true thoughts.

Feeling a surge of...