Hidden (Hidden Trilogy #1)

Chapter Fourteen

The next morning was a blur. We all loaded into the McCoys’ four SUVs and had our own little procession to the airport. Getting dressed up early in the morning was a really bad idea, but Cassie insisted. I rode with Cade, his parents, and two Enforcers. Cassie was in another vehicle with Brody and his family. Hunter, honest to God, almost threw a punch when he was told he would ride in one car and Bree another. Bree smoothed the situation over by saying she would ride with him and his parents while her parents rode with more Enforcers. I would have been laughing at Hunter’s actions if I wasn’t half asleep and at the same time, worried about our meeting later that day.

The plane ride itself took about two hours. I sat next to Cade and managed to catch a few more minutes of rest snuggled into his side. There were voices around me but I tried to tune them out. I was stressed enough without rehashing scenario after scenario of what might or might not happen during the meeting.

Finally, we landed in Dallas. It was a nice, sunny spring day and I wished I had more time to enjoy it. We left the plane in a private space of the tarmac. There were Cadillac Escalades lined up to ferry us to the meeting. Apparently money wasn’t a problem for the High Council. We were met by the High Council Enforcers, and man were they intimidating. There had to have been around twenty of them and they all wore varying degrees of scowls. Beside the intimidating act, they all wore similar combat attire usually found in the military. It wasn’t the typical camo color, but a dull grey and black mix. Thankfully they didn’t have any guns or weapons…that I could see. Of course they were wolves so…yeah.

“Is smiling not allowed once you’re an Enforcer?” I asked Cassie under my breath who stood at my side. She choked back her laugh before she could answer.

“Looks like they have a stick where the sun don’t shine, doesn’t it?” She replied, while giving the Enforcers a steady gaze. They were all a few years older than us, from the information Cassie had told me about Enforcers in general. From their scowls and serious expression, I was worried about Cade joining their ranks in one short month. They looked like they had already seen more than their fair share of the injustice in the world and I didn’t want that for Cade.

“Are all of them future Alphas?” I asked as we slowly walked ahead and Liam led us toward the waiting Enforcers.

“Not all of them.” Cassie replied. “Some request to be trained as High Council Enforcers so they are better equipped to be Enforcers for their own packs.”

“Brody and Hunter aren’t going, are they?” I glanced back at both of them. Hunter held Bree firmly against his side and Brody walked on the other side of her.

“No. Hunter won’t now that he has Bree. I doubt Brody would leave either.” Cassie answered. Liam stopped just short of the man that seemed to be the leader in front of the train of Escalades. He seemed to be a little older, maybe mid-thirties. I wondered if he was one of the trainers for the new “recruits.” He wore a stern face, had a large build, and overall, not someone I would want to mess with.

“Alpha Liam.” The man said and inclined his head slightly in greeting.

“Enforcer Carver.” Liam nodded back. “I see we have an escort this morning.”

“Standard procedure.” Carver responded. He looked around the group and his eyes landed on me. Cade stiffened beside me. “Is that the girl in question?” Liam looked back at me before he returned his gaze to Carver.

“That is Kendra. Yes.” Liam responded. Carver nodded. He never once let his eyes off me. I watched as he took a deep breath and frowned.

“She’s not human.” Carver stated. I was surprised that he could pick up on my scent from that distance. Usually shifters were a lot closer to me than that to figure it out.

“No, she’s not.”Liam agreed.

“She smells like us.” He commented. Well, I did spend most of my time with the McCoy pack. “We were told a human witnessed shifted wolves.” His eyes strayed back to Liam.

“You were misinformed.” Liam stated adamantly. Carver’s eyes widened slightly.

“That will go over well.” He replied with a hint of humor before it vanished from his face. He turned and gestured to the Escalades. “McCoy Alphas in front. With the girl. The rest of you find another vehicle.” He moved to the lead Escalade that Liam and Mica were supposed to be in and held open the door. I turned to Cade.

“Are you-“

“I’m with you.” Cade stated firmly. He placed a guiding hand at my back and followed his parents. Liam and Mica slid into the vehicle and as Cade and I moved to follow, Carver held up his hand.

“You can find another one.” Carver stated looking at Cade. A low growl emanated from Cade’s chest.

“I go where she goes.” He said slowly but firmly. Carver glared his displeasure at being disobeyed. They faced off for a few seconds, each waiting for the other to back down. Neither did and I wasn’t sure how to proceed when Mica’s head reappeared.

“Enforcer Carver. This is our son, Cade. He’s the future Alpha of our pack. Surely he can ride in our car?” Mica asked sweetly. Carver looked between Mica and Cade before grunting.

“Fine. Get in.” Carver demanded. I ducked inside before he changed his mind and Cade was right behind me. Carver shut the door and then opened the front passenger side door and folded himself inside. As soon as his door was shut, we were off. Not a word was said out loud but I could tell Cade and his parents were having one of their silent communications wolfy style. I turned my head so I didn’t have to watch their facial expressions change in a response to whatever was being said that I couldn’t hear. Sometimes being normal was annoying.

I watched the scenery whiz by as we made our way downtown. I’d never been a fan of the skyscrapers in major metropolitans. They blotted out the sun and made me dizzy when I looked up at them. Never mind that I was afraid of heights. I couldn’t imagine why wolves would want to have their headquarters here. In the middle of a city. Must be a status thing.

We pulled into an underground parking garage and parked near a bank of elevators. The garage itself was gated and there were guards at the elevators too. There were four fairly large elevators but I still wasn’t sure if everyone was going to fit. In total, we had to number over forty between the McCoy Pack and High Council Enforcers. I wondered when the Rhunes Pack would arrive. The lead car occupants were one of the first groups up. And I mean up. We went all the way to the 54th floor without stopping. Once the elevator dinged and the doors opened, we were met with more High Council Enforcers. How many Enforcers did these people have exactly? And for what purpose? Man a small scale war?

We were watched and closely guarded as we waited for our entire party to arrive. Three elevator dings later, we were all there. We followed Carver down a hallway lined with stationed guards along the way. Our destination seemed to be the double doors at the end of the hall.

“Kendra,” Cade said softly. I looked up at him in question. “Don’t say anything unless they ask you a direct question. Let Dad handle this, okay?” He asked.

“I planned to.” I assured him. I didn’t know how this meeting was going to operate and I was more than happy to have someone else do the talking. At least for now. The double doors swung open and the room looked similar to a courtroom. Only where a judge usually sat, there were five empty chairs. To the right, I could see the Rhunes Pack seated in their chairs and we were ushered to the left. Yep, defendant and prosecutor style, just like real court. Cade, his parents, and I sat down in the front chairs and everyone else sat behind us. The big double doors banged behind us and made the room feel all the more ominous.

“So, where’s the council?” I whispered, knowing that everyone in the room would probably hear me anyway. Cade gave me a dirty look. Oh yeah, no talking.

“The High Council will be here momentarily.” Carver responded as he stood to our left along the wall. He glared at me like forgetting the “High” in front of Council was a big offense. My bad. I didn’t respond and instead sat back in my chair. I looked over at Dusty to see him frowning and looking at his father, Gene. He resembled his father, but there must have been a lot of his mother in him too. His Dad had a bulky build just like Dusty and stared at me shrewdly. I resisted the urge to wave. I could tell they were having some private conversation between them. They must have finally realized that I wasn’t human…or all human…whatever. I wondered what kind of problems that would create for them for misreporting something?

A door opened behind the five chairs and my attention was pulled back to the front. As it swung open, everyone rose to their feet and stood at attention. Cade, not-so gently, urged me to my feet too.

I watched as the five High Council members filed in. Three men, two women, who all wore robes like real judges. I wondered if that was really necessary but seeing as I was new to this whole shifter society, I suppose it wasn’t my place to judge. Two men sat on the outside, then the women, and the last man took the center chair. When they all took their seats, we were allowed to sit down too. I could see what Cassie meant by “old and stuffy”. They each seemed to be in their mid to upper sixties, and not that there was anything wrong with that, but the condescending look each one wore really put the icing on the cake.

They surveyed the gathering before each of their eyes landed on me. Let me tell you, having that entire icy glare and condescension directed solely on you is a little unnerving. I resisted shuffling in my seat and waited for something to happen. After an uncomfortable amount of silence, the man in the middle spoke.

“For those of you who aren’t familiar or well versed in the ways of the High Council, I am High Councilor Anton. To my right,” he gestured to the woman beside him, “are Councilor Cora and Councilor Julian.” He gestured to his left and said, “Councilor Gina, and Councilor Blaine. We each look after the wellbeing and function of North America and ensure that all laws are enforced and followed.” He paused and looked around the room. “Now, we are gathered today as a member of the Rhunes Pack reported that a human,” he sneered the word, “had knowledge of us. Of shifters.” His eyes found and held mine before asking, “Is this the human?”

“High Councilor, if I may?” Liam asked as he rose to his feet beside my chair.

“Alpha Liam. It’s been a long time. What do you have to say for your pack’s actions?” Wow. Apparently they had already made their decision. My heartrate kicked up in panic that we wouldn’t even get a chance for our side to be heard. Thankfully, Liam was quick and to the point.

“The girl beside me, Kendra, is not what she seems. By all appearances she looks human, but she’s not. She doesn’t smell like a human at all.”

“What do you mean?” High Councilor Anton asked, puzzlement crossing his features.

“It’s true, High Councilor.” Carver spoke up beside us which surprised the heck out of me. “She looks human but she’s not. She smells like a wolf but it’s not as strong as a shifters' scent.” I watched as an emotion crossed over High Councilor Anton’s face before he masked it.

“She probably just smells like a wolf because she sleeps with McCoy all the time.” Dusty sneered. I placed a restraining hand on Cade’s arm as he growled and appeared to want to rip out Dusty’s throat.

“Silence.” High Councilor Anton demanded with a glare at Dusty and a cursory glance at Cade. He turned his attention back to me before he looked at Carver. “What do you mean her scent isn’t as strong?”

“She has faint traces of the McCoy Pack on her, yes,” he sent a disapproving glare at Dusty, “but no more than if she spent time in their house.” He returned his attention to High Councilor Anton. “However, she also carries her own scent. That one resembles a wolf but seems weak. The scent isn’t as strong as it should be.” Well, that was news. I looked to Cade but he seemed just as surprised as me.

“You’re positive she isn’t human?” Councilor Cora asked.

“Positive.”Carver nodded.

“So the Rhunes Pack’s report was false.” She said and looked pointedly at the Rhunes Alpha. I watched as he visibly swallowed.

“My son saw a girl he thought to be human at the time with shifted wolves. It was his duty to report the offense.” Gene offered in his defense.

“Maybe your son should verify his information before informing the High Council and wasting our precious time.” Councilor Cora remarked with disdain.

“He was misinformed. It won’t happen again.” Gene stated.

“No, it won’t.” Councilor Blaine answered. “Apparently your son needs a few lessons on the difference between a human and wolf’s scent. I assume your son will be joining our ranks in a few short weeks?”

“Yes, Councilor Blaine.”

“Then Enforcer Carver,” Councilor Blaine turned his attention to Carver stationed beside us. “See that our new recruit is scheduled sessions with Enforcer Garner. He will ensure special training on the differences between a wolf and a human scent.” He smiled with a hint of malice. His implied threat sent shudders through my body.

“Of course, Councilor Blaine.” Carver answered without any inflection in his voice.

“Now that we have that arranged,” Councilor Gina drawled, “What are we going to do with her?” The last word was said with more than a hint of contempt.

“Yes,” High Councilor Anton stated as his eyes swung to me. “What are we going to do with you?” He paused before he looked back at the Rhunes Pack. “You may leave. You are no longer needed.” I watched as the group fled, some with questioning looks my way. When the doors finally closed behind them, High Councilor Anton looked back to me and asked, “Where are your parents, child?” The question caught me off guard but I managed to answer after I cleared my throat.

“I don’t know.” I was aware of Cade’s stiff posture beside me. I know he said not to talk but I couldn’t really ignore a direct question, now could I?

“You don’t know?” He questioned with raised eyebrows, like he didn’t believe my answer.

“No. I was abandoned when I was a toddler. I’ve been in foster care ever since.”

“Have you always known the McCoy Pack?”

“No.” I shook my head. “I just moved to their territory at the beginning of the school year.”

“How old are you?”

“I turn eighteen in a few weeks.” High Councilor Anton pressed his lips before continuing.

“When did you find out about shifters?” High Councilor Anton asked with narrowed eyes. I swallowed, not sure how to answer that question. If I answered truthfully, would I get Cade’s Pack in trouble? Thankfully, Liam answered for me.

“She became friends with my children at the beginning of the year but didn’t find out about shifters until just before Thanksgiving.” A little stretch since it was closer to Halloween but…whatever.

“And you never informed us?” High Councilor Anton asked haughtily.

“There was no law broken. I didn’t want to burden the High Council with something so trivial. She was obviously not human. However, Mica and I tried to find information on what she was.”

“And did you?” Councilor Gina asked leaning forward, a little too keen on the answer in my opinion.

“No. We were unsuccessful.” Liam answered. Councilor Gina sat back in her chair. Was that… relief on her face?

“Hmm…this is a dilemma.” High Councilor Anton mused. “Do you have any idea who your parents are, child?” I was starting to get annoyed at his reference to me being a child but tried to be good and hide it.

“No. I don’t.” I didn’t feel it was necessary to tell them I had a name for my mother. Clara. Thankfully Cade didn’t chime in either.

“I suppose we should call in our Elder.” Councilman Julian replied almost bored like. “He might have an inkling of what this girl is.”

“Enforcer Carver, have your men escort Elder Nickolas to this chamber.” High Councilor Anton instructed.

“Yes, High Councilor.” Carver strode to the door and spoke to someone on the other side. Silence reigned for ten minutes as we waited for the Elder to show up. I knew I was the only one suffering through the silence since everyone else was using their wolfy senses to hold a private conversation. Would this Elder really be able to tell me what I was? Finally the double doors opened and an older man in his late seventies, shuffled through the door. His eyes scanned the room. As they landed on me they widened in surprise.

“Elder Nickolas.” High Councilor Anton demanded the Elder’s attention. Nickolas shifted his focus to the five Councilors and nodded in greeting.

“You summoned me?” He asked. From my vantage, he sounded a lot stronger than his bearing portrayed. I had a feeling it was an act…but why?

“Yes, we have a bit of a…problem…we were hoping you would clear up.” High Councilor Anton stated. “This girl,” he motioned to me, “isn’t human. But she smells faintly of a wolf. Do you know what she is?”

“Certainly.” He nodded without hesitation. I was surprised by his quick reply.

“And what is she?” High Councilor Anton asked with annoyance.

“A rare latent wolf.” Nickolas replied evenly. My mind blanked at his announcement. A wolf? The looks on the Councilors faces showed a variation of dread, frustration, and hatred. Was I the only one surprised by his statement?

“I’m a what?” I asked, sure I didn’t hear him right.

“A latent, dear.” Nickolas said as he turned toward me and away from the Councilors. “It means your wolf is hidden to you.”

“I thought those were extinct?” Brody chimed in.

“Hence the rare.” Nickolas grinned. I was a wolf? A latent wolf?

“There hasn’t been a latent wolf in years.” Mica commented.

“One hundred and ninety-three to be exact.” Nickolas stated.

“Why now? What does it mean?” Cassie asked.

“Latent wolves were always rare. Some learned to shift while others were never able to obtain their wolf form. If they ever did learn to shift, and were white, their coming usually foretold of great upheaval or change to come.” Nickolas explained. His eyes remained fixed on me during the last part.

“Wait, she can learn to shift?” Cade asked eagerly. I glanced out of the corner of my eye at Cade who was absorbing the information faster than I was.

“Of course. Other shifters have been doing it for years. There’s no reason why Kendra wouldn’t be able to.”

“Elder Nickolas.” High Councilor Anton stated through gritted teeth. I think he was annoyed the conversation was excluding him. “You’re positive she is a latent wolf?”

“Absolutely.” Nickolas replied with confidence as he turned back to the head table.

“Is there any way to know if she will ever shift?” High Councilor Anton asked.

“And what color she would be?” Councilor Cora chimed in.

“Of course not.” Nickolas scoffed. “Her wolf is hidden and she will have to work to make her wolf surface. She may obtain some form of heightened senses from her wolf but that might be all she ever achieves.” He looked back at me. “If we knew who her parents were, then we might have a clue as to what color she would be.”

“I don’t know.” I answered quickly. Nickolas’s eyes narrowed but he didn’t comment.

“Well, then. Is there anything else you need?” Nickolas asked as he turned back to High Councilor Anton.

“No. And least I remind everyone in this room, what was discovered today remains here. No one is to discuss anything about latent wolves beyond this room.” He glared around the room before looking back at Nicolas. “You are dismissed.” He said with a wave of his hand. As Nickolas turned to leave I caught his eye and was surprised when he winked at me before he left the room. Silence reigned for a few seconds while everyone absorbed this new information. I was a wolf! I couldn’t help giving myself a mental high five. How cool what that?

“I suppose we must discuss her future.” High Councilor Anton sighed.

“What do you mean?” Liam was quick to ask.

“She will need to be monitored. We need to know if her wolf is surfacing and what threat she could pose to our society.”

“Threat?” Mica exclaimed. “She’s just a girl that found out she’s a wolf. She doesn’t understand wolf politics let alone how to call her wolf. She is no threat to anyone.”

“She could be a white wolf.” Councilor Blaine stated.

“She might not too.” Cade stated firmly. “Besides, isn’t that whole doom and gloom just a story? I’ve never heard of a latent white wolf bringing about great change.”

“Learn your history books, boy,” High Councilman Anton growled. “It happened back in the early 1800’s.”

“That is beside the point.” Liam commented. “Kendra just found out she’s a wolf. Latent, yes, but a wolf nonetheless. She has no clue what that means or entails. What would you propose to do with her?”

“She will remain here. Where she can be monitored and observed.”

“Lock her up?” Liam growled. “She has broken no laws. Keeping her here would go against everything we stand for as a Pack.”

“What would you suggest?” Councilor Cora scoffed. “We can’t allow her to run free. Her whereabouts must be monitored.”

“May I speak?” I asked, looking around the room. Cade gripped my hand and gave me a gentle shake of his head but I ignored him.

“What would you have to say?” Councilor Cora asked as she looked down her nose at me.

“I know I don’t understand all of your rules but I would be happy to learn. I want to learn about my heritage that was stolen from me. I would like to be a part of a Pack. Somewhere to call home. I have no wish to bring about any kind of change. I’m just an ordinary girl, trying to make it through graduation.” I shrugged.

“Certainly not a speech of a rebel leader,” Councilor Julian mumbled.

“The McCoy pack would like to adopt Kendra into our fold.” Mica announced. My eyes widened in response and Cade rubbed his thumb over my hand that he was holding in a soothing gesture. “We will look out for her. Teach her our ways. Help her learn what she needs to know as a shifter.” I was stunned at Mica’s offer. Be a part of Cade’s pack? Officially? Would I finally have a place to call home?

“We will of course report her progress back to you, if you wish.” Liam added. High Councilor Anton regarded us before he turned his attention to the other Councilors. A silent conversation seemed to pass between them before he finally rotated back to us.

“Fine. We require quarterly updates on her progress. Leave nothing out.” High Councilor Anton warned.

“We won’t. Reports every quarter.” Liam nodded. Mica turned to me and smiled happily. Cade squeezed my hand and I turned to him and grinned.

“Well, if we are done here.” Councilor Gina replied as she looked scornfully at me. She stood and the rest of us stood out of respect, or habit in our case. Each of the Councilors filed out of the chamber and a collective sigh sounded around the room. Brody was the first to let out a whoop.

“Hell yeah!” He yelled before he wrapped his arms around me and hugged me tightly. “We knew there was something different about you, but a latent?” He finally let me go and Cade pulled me back into him.

“A latent wolf.” He murmured in my ear. I grinned. I was a wolf!

“Let’s go back to the hotel.” Liam suggested. Carver ushered us through the doors and back to the elevators. We didn’t speak as we rode 54 floors down to the underground garage and piled back into the vehicles. As the High Council Enforcers dropped us off in front of our hotel, bags and all, Carver stopped Liam.

“Elder Nickolas informed me he would like to visit tonight, if you are available.”

“Yes, of course. Any time he wants to stop by. The sooner the better.” Liam agreed.

“I’ll inform him upon my return.” Caver nodded. He glanced my way one more time before he left. Cade ushered me into the hotel behind everyone else and up to our bank of suites on the top floor. I knew Cade’s parents were well off but, this much? The suites had one main room when you first entered for dining and entertaining. I could tell there were at least three bedrooms that branched off from there. Other suites lined the hallway outside where other members of our party would be staying.

“Everyone sit down. I’ll order room service for lunch and we can talk about…everything.” Liam instructed. We congregated around the massive table that sat close to sixteen. For those that couldn’t sit at the table, they took up seats at the built in bar. A buzz of conversation flowed around the room with everyone throwing me curious glances every now and then. Not that I could blame them. Being the harbinger of doom is not something to be taken lightly. If I was a white wolf, of course. Or could shift at all for that matter.

“You doing okay?” Cade asked from his seat beside me. He was holding my hand and rubbing his thumb back and forth over my skin.

“Yeah. Just taking a while to sink in.”

“I bet.” He smiled. “At least we know what you are.”

“I’m a wolf.” I smiled, happy to have something within my grasp.

“But how long will it take for your wolf to surface?” Brody asked over all the conversation. Everyone else quieted down, but no one had an answer.

“That’s something we will ask Elder Nickolas once he arrives.” Liam stated. “We will have to keep things quiet since we technically aren’t supposed to discuss things but we need answers. There are so many questions we need answered and I hope Nickolas has the information.” When lunch arrived, everyone dug in, especially Brody. You’d think he hadn’t eaten for days the way he shoveled food in his mouth.

“Can you believe it, Kendra?” Cassie asked from across the table. “You are actually a wolf. No wonder you fit so well into our group.”

“Yeah, who’d have thought?” I answered.

“Good thing Bree found you that day.” Hunter praised Bree sitting beside him at the bar. Bree blushed at his compliment.

“It wasn’t like she was lost.” Bree giggled.

“Just staring at all the masculine beauty over here.” Brody smirked and Cade let off a soft growl in displeasure. I laughed and shook my head.

“Nah, she was already checking out Cade.” Cassie said, and now it was my turn to blush. “She even asked me if I was his girlfriend.” Cassie scrunched up her noise before laughing along with everyone else.

“You noticed me then?” Cade whispered beside me.

“How couldn’t I? You don’t exactly blend in.” I teased.

“I was glad when Bree confronted you. It gave me an excuse to walk over and be closer to you.” Cade confessed.

“You weren’t even looking at me. How could you know I was there?”

“I knew you were there.” Cade replied. “My wolf was scratching at me then to go investigate and see who you were.”

“Does your wolf do that a lot?” I asked, curious.

“More than you know.” Was his cryptic reply. Before I could ask what he meant, there was a knock at the door. Liam stood up and walked over to open it. I was surprised to see Nickolas so soon after our meeting. Carver followed him in but spoke to someone outside to stay there. More guards?

“Nickolas,” Mica greeted pleasantly as she approached and shook his hand. “It’s been a long time since we’ve had time to sit and chat.”

“Indeed it has, my dear.” Nickolas looked pleased to see Mica. His eyes scanned the crowd before they landed on me. “Kendra.”

“Elder Nickolas.” I greeted with a nod.

“Come over here and let me look at you.” Nickolas instructed. I stood up and walked toward him. I noticed that Cade matched me step for step. Nickolas eyed Cade but didn’t comment on my shadow. I stopped in front of him as his eyes scanned me. “I never thought I’d see the day.”

“What day?”I asked.

“The day when a latent white wolf would change the course of shifter history.”

“I’m sorry?” I asked, nonplussed.

“How do you know she’s white?” Cade asked at the same time.

“I don’t have to see her wolf to know she will be.” Nickolas stated.

“But you told the High Council you didn’t know if I was or not.” I protested.

“Let’s just say what the High Council doesn’t know, will be better for you. They find out you’re a white wolf, things could go downhill fast.” He looked back at Cade. “To answer your question, I’ve been the Elder for many years. I know she’s a white wolf because I’ve done my research. It is my job to keep the records of all shifter history.” He sighed before he added, “Even if the current leadership does not want records on ‘lesser’ shifters.”

“You mean shifters besides wolves?” I asked.

“Yes.”He nodded sadly.

“Was there something in the history books about traits of a white wolf? To recognize their coming?” Liam asked.

“Of course. You see, that was one of the traits of a white wolf. They could foretell the future.” He whispered conspiratorially before leaning back. “Of course, that trait takes years to develop if it ever does at all.” I resisted a glance at Cade. I hoped he wasn’t giving anything away either. “The last white wolf made a prophecy about a new era. One that would be led by a woman. A latent white wolf. She would endure loss at a young age, hardship growing up, until her seventeenth year. At which point she would find her place in the world.” He paused before he studied me. “Does that sound familiar at all, dear?” I nodded, unable to find my voice.

“That could be anyone.” Cade stated firmly. “It doesn’t mean Kendra is the fabled white wolf.”

“How many wolf latents do you know?” Nickolas asked with raised eyebrows. Cade didn’t answer. “None. Because there haven’t been any since the last one died in the early 1800’s.”

“You mentioned other shifters have latents. Why are wolves so rare?” Mica asked.

“The High Council would have you believe because wolves are stronger. Their genes always produce strong wolves that can shift.” He glanced at me before he added, “They believe a latent wolf is an affront to their perfect society.”

“The hell it is.” Cade growled as he pulled me closer to him.

“I would agree with you.” Nickolas stated. “I think they are more concerned with the prophecy associated with latent wolves than anything else.”

“Can you explain what being a latent means?” I asked. These were details I needed to know.

“Certainly.” He gestured to the couches beside the table and asked, “Would you mind if I sit? I’m not as young as I used to be.”

“Oh, yeah! Sorry.” I stated as I followed him to the couch. Cade again sat beside me and Liam and Mica joined us. We had the full attention of everyone else, which was good if I was truly going to be adopted into their Pack, they needed to know what Nickolas knew.

“A latent is a shifter whose animal is hidden. Unattainable, at least at the moment. It may take years to coax your wolf to the surface before you are able to shift.”

“How would I go about doing that?”

“Some of what you already do.” Nickolas replied. “Keep company with other shifters. Your wolf will crave those similar to you and it will help her find her way. You may also have to find something that centers you, so you can focus and feel the wolf inside.”

“Wow. So, there’s like a whole other being hidden inside me?”

“Yes, of course. You will have to learn to work together. Other born shifters have years to recognize their wolf and learn to work together before they shift.”

“But Cade shifted when he was two.” I pointed out, remembering an earlier conversation with Cade.

“Alphas always shift early because their wolf nature is inherent to them. Very natural.” I looked over to Cade to see him grinning smugly.

“Showoff.”I muttered.

“I just do what comes natural, babe.” Cade whispered in my ear. He turned to Nickolas before he asked, “Can latents have lifemates?” The question caught me off guard but I waited with baited breath for Nickolas’s answer.

“All shifters have lifemates. The key is the term shifting. Until a latent finds his or her animal, the individual will not be able to identify their lifemate. Their inner beast, so to speak, is key to that bond.”

“So until I learn to shift, I won’t know if I have a lifemate or not.” I asked Nicolas, but turned my head to look at Cade sadly.

“It is possible to feel a bond, before the time of your shift.” Nickolas stated. “Shifters who approach their eighteenth birthday have been known to want to spend more time with an individual to later find out that shifter was their lifemate.”

“Like us.” Hunter said and pulled Bree closer to him. She smiled up at him in return.

“May I ask where your parents…,” Nickolas paused, unsure how to ask the question. I made it easy for him.

“I don’t know who or where they are. I was left on a church doorstep when I was two.”

“Was anything left with you?” Nickolas asked. “A note, perhaps?” I hesitated to answer, looked at Cade, who looked to Liam. Liam raised a questioning brow at Nickolas.

“I should note,” Nickolas added before I could decide to answer his question, “that for the record, Enforcer Carver and I have never been…pleased, with the current leadership. We do as they instruct as it is our duty, however, there are times when we are forced to be…creative, in how an order is carried out.” Liam and Mica chuckled at Nickolas’s explanation.

“Nickolas is a dear friend to my old pack,” Mica assured Liam. “He would never put us in danger.”

“This is information we do not want going back to the High Council.” Liam looked to Nickolas and then to Carver. “I will have your word that this information will not leave this room.”

“I swear.” Nickolas answered.

“Not a word.” Carver answered. Liam nodded for me to answer the question.

“A note was left with me saying it was safer for me to stay away. The note was signed by Clara, my mother.” I explained.

“No last name? No father’s name?”

“No.”

“Where did your last name come from then?”

“The church assigned me a last name.”

“Hmm…well this is a mystery.” Nickolas mused. “I will need to check the records to see if I can find some information, if that’s all right with you, dear.”

“Yes, please do. I would really like to know who they were.”

“I will start straight away upon my return.”

“I also have this,” I said as I pulled my necklace from my shirt. I unhooked it from around my neck and handed it toward Nickolas.

“From your parents?” Nickolas asked, as he flipped the ovals over in his hand, searching.

“I don’t know. The one with the wolf was left with me when I was little. The other is from Cade. ”

“If there was an encryption then we would have better luck. But seeing as it is blank,” he sighed and handed it back to me. “I’m afraid it won’t do me much good.”

“Okay. I thought I’d try.” I reclosed the chain around my neck and hid it under my shirt.

“Is there a way we can get a hold of you? In case we have more questions?” Cade asked.

“Enforcer Carver will notify me if you need something.” Nickolas waved his hand as he stood up to leave. “He is my grandson after all.” He smiled at our shocked faces, before confiding, “It’s the only reason the High Council keeps us around. Good noses run in the family. Besides, I’ve no love for modern technology. Always changing and some new gadget coming out every year. How is one supposed to keep up?” I followed him to the door as he turned around. “I would like to hear from you every now and then, if you don’t mind, dear.”

“No, not at all. Thank you for all your help.” I smiled.

“My pleasure.” He smiled. I couldn’t help the urge to hug him so I stepped forward and wrapped my arms around his middle. “Ah, such a sweet girl.” He returned my hug and kissed the top of my head in a fatherly fashion before he backed up. “Enjoy your stay in Dallas.”

“Thank you, again.” Liam added, as he ushered Nickolas and Carver out the door. We turned back to the table with lunch. The group broke up into small groups and discussed the new development. I was more than happy to cuddle up to Cade on the couch and close my eyes. Nothing could be done at that moment. Hopefully more information would be forthcoming in the near future. For now, I was content with the fact that I knew what I was. The rest I would deal with another day.

The next few days, we spent sightseeing and going to the art expo so I had something to report to Steve and Nicole. I had some time to think about being a latent and knew there were other shifters I should contact, if only I knew how. They might be able to help me bring my wolf to the surface since latents were more common in their groups. Then again, did I want to become what everyone was afraid of? What if Nicolas was right and I was a white wolf? What changes were in store for our future then?

***

We were visiting the last section of the art expo before boarding the private jet to take us home. Cade walked beside me while Cassie and Brody looked at something at one of the booths a couple steps behind us. Hunter and Bree decided to do some sightseeing elsewhere with their parents on our last day. Liam and Mica were with Brody’s parents somewhere nearby, probably with a host of Enforcers surrounding them. I knew I needed to bring up the subject of talking with other shifters, but I wasn’t sure how Cade would take it. My guess was not good, not good at all.

“Cade, I need to ask you something.” I glanced around to make sure no one was paying attention to our conversation.

“What’s that?” His eyes looked down at me from one of the paintings we were looking at.

“Nickolas mentioned that other shifters have latents. I was thinking I need to talk to them to-“

“No. Absolutely not.” Cade cut me off with a firm shake of his head. So, I guess I wasn’t too far off on his reaction. “You don’t need anything from them. We will figure out how to bring your wolf to the surface on our own.”

“Why are you so against me asking them?” I asked frustrated.

“They are dangerous. They aren’t as in control of their animals as we are. Plus, wolves and other shifters don’t mix.”

“But don’t you see that is the problem?” I asked. “Why can’t you work together? At least talk to each other. They would be a huge help in this instance since they have experience dealing with latents.”

“No. I forbid you from talking to them.” Cade was turning all Alpha wolf on me but I wasn’t going to turn belly up for him.

“Excuse me?” I raised my hands to my hips to emphasize my point. “You can’t forbid me to do anything. I have a mind of my own. You’ll be leaving soon for Enforcer Training. You won’t be around to watch over me.” Cade squared off with me.

“I’ll always watch over you.” He insisted.

“Not if you’re in another state.” I pointed out. Cade pressed his lips in frustration.

“We should probably be going if we want to catch the plane.” Cassie said as she walked up to our side. She looked between us and cocked her head. “What’s wrong?”

“Kendra wants to meet with other shifters to talk about her latency.” Cade replied and crossed his arms across his chest. Cassie’s eyes widened.

“You what?” She asked in disbelief.

“I don’t see why it would be a problem. They have answers I need. What’s the worse they could do?”

“Rip you apart for trespassing on their territory.” Brody commented dryly as he joined us. Well, that was promising.

“But I’m not a full-fledged wolf. You said it yourself my wolf scent is weaker.”

“They won’t make the same mistake as us.” Cade pointed out. “They are more familiar with latents and will recognize the weaker scent for what it is.”

“This is exactly why I need to talk with them. Learn what they know.”

“I don’t like it.” Cade said.

“Let’s think about this for a while before doing anything rash.” Cassie suggested.

“Fine.” I gritted out.

“Fine.”Cade growled.

The ride to the airport and two hour plane ride was less than pleasant. Cade brooded beside me and would only give people one word responses. They finally got the clue that he was in no mood to be messed with and finally stopped talking to him. Why I was still sitting by him, I wasn’t sure but if I moved I knew that would just set him off more. The ride back to the McCoys was mostly spent discussing wolf traits and things to look for as my wolf surfaced. I noted that my heightened sense of scent and hearing was probably due to my wolf. I wonder how close to the surface she might already be.

I never did broach the subject of visiting other shifters again. I knew where Cade stood on the issue and was more than aware that he would never change his mind. If I was going to contact them, I’d have to find a way to do it on my own.

Two weeks later was my eighteenth birthday and graduation. Nothing like having everything the same weekend, right? Since we were seniors, we got out of school earlier than the rest of the students. That was fine by me. I passed my classes with flying colors and would be able to keep my scholarship to Southern Oregon University. Liam and Mica had offered to pay my tuition since I was now adopted into their Pack. I politely declined. I didn’t want to feel indebted to them and they were already more than willing to take me on as a member of their Pack. There wasn’t any formal ceremony or papers to signify my acceptance into their pack. Liam and Mica just restated that they considered me one of them. If I was shifter, I would be able to hear other pack members in my head, but since I couldn’t shift, well, nothing really changed. Liam and Mica reminded me that if I ever needed something, to just ask. It was nice to feel wanted. Like I was finally home.

The night before my birthday, I found myself once again at the McCoy house. Apparently this was a tradition when a wolf turned eighteen. There was cake, ice cream, and snacks as we all sat in the basement waiting for the clock to strike midnight. I was a little nervous. I mean, Nickolas said that since I was a latent, it was less than likely I would know who my lifemate was. Cade was more optimistic than me. He thought it was a sure thing for us since I was a wolf. A latent, yes, but a wolf, nonetheless. I secretly hoped he was right.

“Less than a minute now.” Brody announced happily.

“Don’t get your hopes up. Nothing might happen.” I warned.

“Yeah and something could happen.” Cassie countered.

“Yeah, you two could look at each other, the power of the lifemate bond breaks the latent curse, and all’s well in couple land.” Brody replied. The “latent curse” was Brody’s term for my “affliction”. Everyone seemed to be picking up the term too.

“You forgot the part of me being the harbinger of doom.” I replied sarcastically.

“Eh,” Brody shrugged. “That could just be some fabled story Nickolas cooked up.”

“And if it isn’t? If she is a white wolf foretold to bring about great change?” Cassie asked.

“We’ll deal with one thing at a time.” Cade replied.

“Well, you are eighteen in three…two…one. Happy Birthday!” Brody exclaimed. Everyone looked at me expectantly. I met Cade’s eyes but everything felt the same. Nothing had changed. There was no huge string pulling me toward him or the universe focusing in on just him. He was just Cade.

“So, anything different?” Brody asked hesitantly.

“No.” I replied and broke eye contact with Cade. I barely caught a glimpse of frustration from him before I turned away.

“Oh.” Brody said, disappointedly.

“Well, it’s still your birthday.” Bree said. She raised her glass and said, “Happy Birthday, Kendra.” The others followed suit.

“Thanks.” I smiled and tried to hide my own disappointment.

“So, what’s next?” Bree asked.

“Graduation?”I suggested.Bree laughed.

“I know that silly. I meant with your latent wolf.”

“That’s still being debated.” I answered.

“Meaning?”Hunter asked.

“Meaning,” Cade growled, “I don’t want her going anywhere near those other shifters and Kendra is more than willing to put herself in danger and do it anyway.” Cade growled.

“Oh…that.”Bree commented.

“I should probably head home.” I said trying to avoid another argument and rose from the couch. “I have to help Nicole get things ready for the graduation party.”

“I’ll walk you out.” Cade replied. After saying bye to everyone, Cade followed me up the stairs and out to the car. The night was cool and cloudless. I glanced up and knew the moon wasn’t up yet since I could see a smattering of stars clearly. I smiled internally thinking back to one of the first things Cassie joked about. Full moons and werewolves. Crazy how fast life can change. Just as we reached the driver side door, Cade backed me up against it and caged me in.

“I wish you could see how dangerous it would be to go to the other shifters.” He murmured.

“I need answers, Cade.” I stated softly. My hands rubbed the front of his chest as I tried to sooth him.

“I know.” He sighed. He reached down with one of his hands and captured one of mine. “I just think we should find another way.”

“I’ll give Nickolas a call and see if he has any advice.” I compromised. He let go of my hand and brought his hand up to run his finger along the side of my face in a gentle caress.

“I have a birthday present for you.” He grinned down at me.

“You do?” I smiled in return. He nodded and pulled his other hand from the hood of the car that held a small box with a ribbon around it. Excited, I accepted the box from him and carefully opened it. What was inside took my breath away.

“You made this?” I breathed as I pulled out the small figurine of a wolf.

“Yeah. It took some time to whittle but I finally got it right.” The black, hand carved piece of wood easily fit into my hand but the craftsmanship was amazing. Every detail was evident from the piercing eyes to waves in the fur. The wolf sat on its hindquarters and looked regal, almost as if he was standing guard.

I looked up at Cade. “It looks like you.”

“I wanted you to have something while you are at college. A promise that I will always protect you. No matter where I am.”

“It’s perfect Cade. Thank you so much.” I choked out as I wrapped my arms around him in a fierce hug. He held me tightly in return with his head resting on mine.

“Will I see you tomorrow?” He asked.

“Probably not. I have to help Nicole all day from the sounds of it.” I replied softly and pulled back. I tucked the wolf back into the box for safe keeping.

“Then I’ll see you at graduation.” He said and I nodded.

“When do you leave?” I asked as I thought about his Enforcer Training. I knew it was supposed to start after graduation but no one gave me a straight answer.

“Right after graduation.”

“Right after?” I asked, shocked.

“Yes. Those were my orders.” He replied tightlipped. I reached up and traced his eyebrow and jaw with my finger to smooth out his frown.

“When will I see you again?”

“I don’t know. I won’t know a lot of the details until I get there. But I’ll call as often as I can.” I closed my eyes, thinking how hard it was going to be to not have him around for weeks on end.

“Hey,” he said and kissed me lightly on the lips. I opened my eyes and looked at him. “It’s not like I’ll be unreachable. We can still talk on the phone.”

“I know.” I sighed. He leaned down and kissed me a little harder. The unknown was what killed me. Was he going to change serving the High Council? All those Enforcers seemed so intense and scary. I didn’t want that for Cade. I…liked…him just the way he was. Really like him. Cade broke our kiss and rested his forehead against mine.

“Get in,” He said as he backed up and opened the door. “I’ll see you the day after tomorrow.” He promised. I slid into my seat and Cade closed the door after me. As I drove away, I watched in the rearview mirror as he stood and observed me disappear down the lane. Five years of Enforcer Training was going to be rough. I wasn’t sure how we would handle being apart for that long. Would we still care for each other? Would we still want to be together?

When I reached my house the lights were off. I walked toward the front steps and stopped when I saw a wrapped package on the front porch. I reached down and picked it up to find that the bundle was white flowers. I looked for a note and found one nestled in amongst the stems. I opened it and turned the note toward the street light to see the words. I frowned as I read the note.

Kendra,

While your friend would have been a prize to have, I think stealing you from Alpha-boy would be even more fun. Think of me as I pound him to a pulp in training. I know I’ll be thinking of you. Happy Birthday. – D.

There was only one shifter I knew with a name that started with a D, and that was Dusty. What would he want with me? Was it to get back at me for the High Council thing? I shook my head and pocketed the note for later thought. I didn’t want to explain the flowers to Steve and Nicole so I walked back to the street and dumped them in the trashcan there. I turned and walked back toward the house.

Halfway there, I paused as I cocked my head to the side. My new found senses told me that I was no longer alone. I slowly turned to face the street and was met by a girl and young man who stood in the semi darkness. They studied me as I did them. The girl looked familiar, but from that distance I couldn’t make out her features very well. The boy was lean and had a predatory look in his eye. Each wore comfortable jeans and a t-shirt. I shifted my weight, unsure if they were a threat and if it would be smarter to run.

“Don’t remember me?” The girl asked. Her voice sounded familiar and then all of a sudden I remembered.

“Restroom girl.” I breathed. The young man let out a deep chuckle at my statement which caused the girl to frown.

“My name is Amber.” She said forcefully. She looked over at the man beside her and said, “My brother, Clint.”

“Are you a panther too?” I couldn’t stop the question from popping out as my eyes focused on him. His chuckles subsided and he regarded me steadily.

“How much do you know?” He asked gruffly.

“Only that Amber is a panther.” I shrugged. “I didn’t even know her name until ten seconds ago.”

“We heard you finally know what you are.” Amber said. I looked back at her.

“How did you find out?”

“News travels fast.” Huh, so much for High Councilor Anton’s edict about keeping quiet.

“I thought other shifters were on the outs with the wolves.” I asked curiously. Clint bared his teeth.

“I told you she would side with them.” He said headedly at Amber. She glared at him.

“She doesn’t know everything yet. She’s only heard one side.”

“Doesn’t matter.” He exhaled sharply. “She’s probably already brainwashed.”

“Hey, standing right here.” I pointed out, waving my hand to get their attention. “What don’t I know?”

“We can help you.” Amber said as she looked back at me.

“Help me with what?”

“Find your wolf. Help her surface.”

“How would you do that?”

“Other shifters besides wolves have latents. We have knowledge you need to learn to shift.”

I digested what she said and knew she had a point. I had planned on contacting them anyway to possibly discuss bringing my wolf to the surface. “Why would you want to help me?” I glanced at Clint. “It doesn’t sound like it’s a popular idea.”

“There are a few that are resistant to the idea. However, if you are a latent, then that needs to be taken into consideration. There hasn’t been a latent wolf in a long time.” She eyed her brother.

“One hundred and ninety-three years, to be exact.” I replied.

“Exactly. You’re coming means something. We want to help.”

“Are you referring to the whole doom and gloom bit that comes with being a white latent wolf? Because I wouldn’t hold my breath. That’s not me. I’m not a harbinger of change or anything.”

“Well, at least she’s not conceited.” Clint commented and a slight grin crossed over his face.

“Regardless of what the future holds, we want to help you. We have the resources you need.”

“You don’t think the wolves can help me?”

“As you pointed out, they haven’t had a full grown latent in over a hundred years. None of the wolves have the experience that we do.”

“And if you are the white latent,” Clint added, finally adding something useful to the conversation, “Then you are going to need our protection. The High Council will see you as a threat.”

“That ship has sailed,” I mumbled.

“All the more reason to let us protect you.” Clint replied as he easily heard my mumbled reply. Crazy shifter hearing.

“Teach you.” Amber added and glared at her brother.

“What’s your end game?” I asked. “You have to have some purpose or reason for offering help.”

“If you really are a white latent, then you will bring about change one way or another. We’d like to be on the profitable side of that change.” Clint answered.

“Meaning, we help you find your wolf, then you help us when the time comes.”

“I don’t understand or know what you want help with.” I stated carefully, even though I was starting to guess what they wanted.

“The wolves hold all the power.” Clint stared at me steadily. “We want to even out the odds.”

“Holy hell.” I breathed. “You’re talking about a rebellion?” Hell, I just find out I’m a wolf and now I’m being dragged into a war.

“Maybe, maybe not.”He shrugged.

“Diplomacy will come first.” Amber added.

“But if they don’t listen, war will come.” Clint stated firmly.

“I don’t want to be involved with that. I just want to go to college, graduate, and earn a living. Nowhere in my repertoire does it say anything about battling it out with the High Council. My goal is to stay as far away from them as possible.”

“So you won’t help?” Clint asked as frustration edged his voice.

“I don’t have anything to offer to help.” I countered.

“You’re going to school at Southern Oregon University, right?” Amber asked, changing tactics.

“How did you-“

“A simple search of records.” Amber waved off my question. “Ashland is neutral territory. I’ll be attending myself this fall. I’ll offer to room with you. You can get to know other shifters, learn how to make your wolf surface, and you can decide at that point, how involved you want to be.”

“You want to be roomies?” The other things she said circled in my head. If other shifters knew how to shift, my best bet was to have them teach me. My in was Amber.

“I can do it if you can. You don’t smell too bad yet for a wolf.” She teased with a grin. I quirked my lip in response.

“Fine, I’ll room with you. The other things I’ll have to think about.”

“Deal.” She looked at her brother in triumph before she glanced back at me. “I’ll have our computer whiz make the arrangements.”

“Okay.” I nodded. Then I asked the one question that had been bothering me. “Aren’t you breaking some shifter rules by being in the McCoy territory?” That predatory gleam was back in Clint’s eyes.

“We know how to evade a few dogs.” Clint grinned. “We are cats after all.”

“Stealth is our middle name.” Amber added with a smile.

“By the way,” Clint added as they turned to leave, “there was a dog hanging around when we got here. I assume you don’t like him if you threw away his gift?” It took me a second to figure out he was talking about Dusty.

“No. And he was trespassing. He shouldn’t have been here in the first place.”

“Good to know. I’ll keep my eye open for him when you two are in Ashland.” He looked me up and down. “My stint in the city just became a whole lot more enjoyable.” He grinned. My mouth fell open. Oh my God, he was flirting!

“Come on Romeo,” Amber said with a sigh and rolled her eyes. “We need to go.” She waved at me. “See you in the fall.”

I nodded.“Bye.”

“Have a fun summer with your wolf friends.” Clint said as he approached the shadows along the driveway. “Come fall, you’ll experience a whole new world.” With that parting thought, he disappeared into the darkness. I listened to see if I could hear, or scent them with my newfound abilities, but there was nothing. Absolutely nothing. Maybe my senses weren’t as good as I thought. I turned and made my way into the house.

I silently crept inside and locked the door behind me. Steve and Nicole must have turned in already because the house was silent. As I reached my room, I felt like something was off. I quickly scanned the room and noted that I was alone, so something else triggered my senses. The only thing out of place was an envelope on my bed. Great, another note. If that freak was in my room I was seriously going to hurt someone. I marched over and ripped the envelope open and scanned the letter. Then reread it to make sure I was reading it correctly.

Welcome to the shifter world, latent. Remember, we know things that your wolf friends don’t. Things you need to hear. Call me sometime if you have questions before this fall. –Amber

There was a number written below the message and I programmed it into my phone for later, just in case. I sat down on the bed and just stared at the letter. How many weird things could happen in one night? Happy Birthday Kendra and welcome to your new life.

***

Graduation day finally arrived and I had to admit, it was probably the most mundane experience compared to the last month. I walked across the stage, accepted my diploma, and that was it. I was officially a graduate. Steve and Nicole both gave me big hugs afterward and told me how proud they were of me. I was pretty happy too. I made it through high school and was off to college to follow my dreams of art. Of course there was that other fact of me being a latent shifter. One step at a time, Kendra.

“Woohoo! We made it!” Brody whooped as he descended on me and wrapped his arms around my waist to twirl me in a circle. I clutched his shoulders in fear he would drop me but I should have known a shifter would be able to handle it just fine. As he let me go the others joined us and we all passed around hugs. I ended with Cade, who held me closer and longer than anyone else.

“I have to go.” Cade whispered in my ear.

“Already?” Man, he wasn’t kidding when he said right after graduation.

“Yes. A car is waiting for me outside.” He stepped back and dug in his pocket before handing me something. “Here. Your birthday present.” I opened my palm under his and he dropped something metallic in my hand.

“My necklace!” I exclaimed. I ran my finger over the wolf emblem in the middle of the oval and then the one Cade gave me next to it. “I thought I lost this a few days ago.”

“I borrowed it for a bit. Needed to write something on the back of the one I gave you.” Cade said quietly. I turned the pendant over and read the inscription.

Forever Yours.

There was a space that was followed by:

Cade

Tears formed in my eyes as I looked up at Cade. He looked at me softly and a small smile tugged at the corner of his lips.

“I want you to take care of yourself, Kendra.” Cade spoke softly. He reached up and cupped my face between his hands. “I want a future with you. No matter if your wolf surfaces or not. We will be together, forever.” He stated firmly.

“Oh, Cade.” I sniffled and smiled. “I want that too.” His smile bloomed across his face before he swooped down and captured my lips with his. The kiss was long and all consuming. Better than any other kiss to date. It heated me from the inside out. I wrapped my arms around his neck and pulled him closer as his hands slid down my sides and wrapped around my back, pulling me flush with him. The kiss was never ending.

Finally cat calls snared our attention and our heads broke apart. We started into each other’s eyes before we turned toward the sound. Brody was the one doing cat calls. Cassie had her phone up as she either snapped pictures or recorded us. Bree was turned slightly into Hunter’s chest as she tried to hide her laughter while Hunter looked on in mild amusement.

“Well,” Liam cleared his throat from our other side. Cade and I both turned our heads and parted slightly. “That’s one way to end a graduation ceremony.” Liam grinned at us. I blushed and hid my face in Cade’s chest in embarrassment.

“Liam,” Mica scolded, but still laughed. Steve and Nicole were standing by with raised eyebrows and smiles on their faces.

“I suppose we should head out for the graduation party.” Steve said.

“I’ll meet you in the parking lot.” I said. Steve nodded and both he and Nicole waded through the crowd hand in hand. I looked back up to Cade. “Walk you out?”

“Sure.” He said bye to everyone. Liam gave him a few words of advice in parting. Cade clasped my hand as we made our way through the crowd and out the front door. A black sedan waited for Cade at the curb. He turned to me and gave me a weak smile. “I’ll miss you.”

“I’ll miss you too.” I replied, trying to hold back my tears.

“I’ll call you as much as I can.” He assured me.

“I’ll look forward to it.”

“Don’t do anything stupid while I’m gone.” He teased. I knew he was referring to visiting other shifters. I hadn’t mentioned the visit or note from Amber and Clint, or the message from Dusty. I figured he had enough to worry about with Enforcer Training. Besides, if I did tell him there was no telling what kind of response I would get. My luck he’d go hunt down Dusty…and post guards on me to monitor my movement if I told him about Amber’s note.

“You know me, I never do anything stupid.” I quipped. He narrowed his eyes at me. “Promise. No plans to do anything stupid.” I hadn’t decided if I was going to call Amber or not…so… And “randomly” being assigned to room with Amber could hardly be considered my fault, right?

“Good.” He looked at the car then back at me and sighed. “Take care of yourself,” he repeated quietly. I smiled in response.

“I will. And you too.” He bent down and gave me one last, lingering kiss before he pulled back and stared into my eyes. After a few seconds, he turned and opened the door to the sedan and slid inside. Moments later, he was gone. I stood there for a few minutes, looking after him. I had so many thoughts swirling through my head. Would Enforcer Training change him? Would he still be the same Cade when he returned? I shifted my gaze to Steve and Nicole who waited for me with big smiles beside their car. I smiled in return and made my way toward them.

Graduation was over, I was officially eighteen, but I had a whole new set of worries. Starting college in the fall was one of them, but that almost paled in comparison to everything else. I finally knew what I was. Now, I needed to understand what that meant. Maybe living with Amber wouldn’t be such a bad idea? She did approach me first after all. Brody’s comment of other shifters ripping me to shreds surely wouldn’t apply if I was invited…right? I knew Cade wouldn’t approve, but he was off to Enforcer Training and wouldn’t be around. What he didn’t know wouldn’t hurt him. Then there was the annoying…thing…with Dusty. Was he really singling me out just because Cade and I were involved? Well, I’d figure it out. It couldn’t be that hard, right?