I take a deep breath and get to my feet, knowing this is what I’ve been preparing for since I was old enough to understand what it meant.

  I’m ready. I can do this.

  I have to do this. It’s the only way I will be able to survive in this life.

  The ceremony is held in a big clearing not too far off from the lake. There are lights strung about, tents erected, tables, chairs, food, drinks, and entertainment.

  This night is a big night. It’s not often a new alpha is named and the energy can be both seen and felt.

  And tonight will be the biggest night of them all. Because what I have planned will never be forgotten.

  I feel them before I see them. Hell, I’d smell them before I saw them. Their scent is so strong, so overpowering, so… delicious. The three of them mixed together…

  It’s almost too much to ignore. But I do. For now.

  I catch them out of the corner of my eye as I walk by, shoulders held back and back straight. I feel their eyes staring, feel the hate burning from both Reverie and Ranger, but from Jade… what I’m getting is something so different. Something I can’t quite pinpoint.

  I don’t want them to hate me. I really don’t. But it won’t matter for much longer anyway.

  I mingle for a while, introducing myself to all of the packs and the people in the area. It’s not just our pack that comes to this celebration but all of them are invited. After all, the alphas have to have a relationship with one another, work with the council in order to make sure everything is run smoothly. Alphas can run their packs how they see fit but there are still rules they must abide by.

  Like with Jade biting Reverie.

  The music is loud, the people are happy, and the food smells delicious. I find myself three beers in and it is not doing a damn thing for my nerves.

  Why the fuck am I so nervous?

  “Dustin!” I turn my head to find Curtis. He’s one of the Hollow wolves, I think part of Jo’s extended family. I put on the fakest smile I can muster and walk over to him, needing to keep up appearances.

  “How are you?” I ask, offering out my hand. “Are you enjoying the party?”“Yeah, it’s real nice. Hey, I just wanted to say congratulations. We’re all really excited about this. Nervous, you know, change and all.”

  I nod my head. I totally get it. “I’m thrilled to be taking over.” I say and he smiles. “Well, enjoy your night. I’ll be seeing you around.”

  I pat him on the shoulder and keep walking.

  As the music dies, I make my way over to my spot with my pack and my father. Across from us, Hollow Pack is seated. My eyes find Jade’s immediately, like a magnet. Her eyes burn into mine and as much as I don’t want to look away, I do. I don’t want to do this with her. I can’t. Not right now.

  One of the Elders walks out into the clearing. I can’t say I know many of their names, having only met a few of them once, but I’ll have to learn them.

  “Everyone, thank you all for coming. Tonight is a very special and ceremonious occasion. We are happy to have you all here, together. It is not often we have a new alpha in our presence. I hope everyone has had something to eat and has enjoyed the music. As much as I appreciate the mingling and fun, I do ask you now to keep the noise to a minimum as the ceremony begins.” He bows and steps away as another, older man, takes his place.

  “Before we welcome Dustin into his new role, I would like to take a few moments to recognize Maverick Hollow and all he has done for this community. I have known Maverick since he was a young boy. I knew he had the alpha spirit in him the moment I met him. He was driven, strong, and compassionate. All good qualities for an alpha to have. He has been with us for many, many years and as much as no one wants to see him go, he is due for some family time. I bet JoEllen was thrilled to hear the news, eh?” He looks at her and she raises her drink up with a smile. Everyone who has a drink does the same and they all take a sip. “I know this is not easy on him. He expected many more years. But unfortunately, after that accident… Well, it’s just unfortunate. Maverick, may you have many years to come in this pack. I hope you spend every day moving forward, doing everything you’ve ever dreamed of.”

  Everyone begins to clap. My eyes find Jade’s once again and I can see her gears turning. Something is going on with her.

  “Dustin!” the Elder shouts, catching my attention. “Come on up here, my boy.” I stand from my seat, holding my head high and walk to his side. I feel hundreds of eyes on me and I should be nervous, now is the time to be nervous, but it’s all gone. Every last ounce has been replaced with the excitement I feel. The Elder is much smaller than me, having shrunk in his old age no doubt. Wolves are big by nature, but as they age, well, they lose a lot of that. “You have proven yourself to all of us over these years. You are fierce, loyal, and selfless. You’ve passed all trials, proving yourself. There is no other person who would do better than you. My boy, we are all proud of you.”

  Everyone starts to clap again. So many people, so many faces. Many I know, many I don’t. But something about seeing everyone around me like this, it solidifies what I need to do. The big bubble of doubt I had floating around, it’s gone. Because I look around at all these faces, but there is only one I truly care about. Only one I seek out.

  Maybe that’s a lie. A lie I keep telling myself because I am stubborn and don’t want to admit that there are actually three. Three who I cannot get out of my brain.

  “Dustin Blackridge, it has been decided that from this day forth you will assume the title of alpha of the Hollow pack. May you run this pack true to who you are. Be kind, be loving, be truthful. Keep an open mind and an open heart. Keep those around you safe.”

  Another Elder walks over, holding the ceremonious shawl made by our ancestral wolves, the founders of Starfall Creek. The one every alpha gets to don as they are bestowed their title. He hands it over to the Elder in front of me, who takes a step closer and throws it over my shoulders. I use the small tie to tie it in the front so it does not fall from its place. It is warm on my skin and truthfully, it makes me feel powerful. This is something special, a great honor.

  The Elder who handed the shawl over walks back to his seat. The one beside me looks around at the crowd. My stomach begins to turn in knots, drops of sweat fall from my head as guilt begins to make me nervous again. I don’t want to offend the Elders or our traditions. I turn to find my father staring at me, his eyes dark. I’d expected him to be proud, perhaps a smile on his face. But never. Not from him.

  “By the power granted in me, Dustin, as a chosen member of this council. I now declare—”

  “Dustin Blackridge!” The entire crowd quiets. The only thing that can be heard is the slight breeze through the trees. “I challenge you for the position of alpha of the Hollow pack!”

  My eyes widen, landing on Jade. Gasps are heard around the area before the whispering starts. I know it’s shocking to everyone else, but right at this moment, I can’t help but admire her. Her beauty, her strength, her courage. She’s perfect. She was made for this.

  The Elder beside me takes a step forward. “My dear Jade, this is not how—”

  Jade opens her mouth to speak, but I speak first. “No,” I say, stepping forward and placing a hand on his shoulder. “No, it isn’t necessary.”

  The Elder opens his mouth to argue but I shake my head. “Dustin—” He looks stunned, and a smile spreads across my face. I look to Jade, and I know this is right. This is how it was always supposed to be.

  “It doesn’t matter because I decline.”

  More gasps.

  More whispering.

  I can feel the anger radiating from my father even though he is twenty feet from me. His eyes burning holes into me, no doubt wishing for my death.

  My eyes find Jade once again. Reverie and Ranger are by her side, both of them looking confused but also ready to fight. My lips turn up in amusement.

  They didn’t know she’d planned this.

  Pride swells in my chest. My girl, she is a stubborn one.

  My lip curves up into a smile as I meet her eyes. She looks confused, but only for a moment. I take a tentative step forward, then another, and another until I am standing before her.

  Rev and Ranger move closer. I growl at them, warning them about stopping me from getting to her.

  “Don’t do anything stupid, Dustin,” Ranger warns.

  “Too late,” I say. I grab Jade’s hands and get to my knee, though it doesn’t make much difference. With my height I am still almost face to face with her, but it’s not about that. This is about something so much more than just being on her level. This is about submitting. “Jade, I am sorry. I am sorry for a million things. Things I know I’ve done wrong but can’t even begin to remember. I could stay here all night trying to recall them, but I’m not sure I would have the time. But most of all, I am sorry that I ever made you feel like you weren’t important to me. It’s you, Jade, it’s always been you. It will always be you. I don’t want to live my life without you by my side.” I look to the guys on either side of her. “Even if it means these two idiots have to tag along.” Rev’s hands fist at his sides and I look over to him and smirk. “Chill, I’m just kidding.” I look back to Jade. “I love you. You are my alpha, Jade. I submit to you.”

  Chapter 54

  Jade

  Well, I didn’t see that coming.

  I can’t breathe.

  I don’t know what to say.

  I’m acutely aware everyone is watching us, waiting for me to make my move. But all I can see is Dustin.

  In this moment, it’s just us. Ranger and Rev are beside me, I know they are, but they are in my periphery. They are the background noise.

  My knees buckle, and I am overrun by the love I feel for this man, the one who’s always had my heart.

  I fall to the ground with him, and take his face in my hands, all the pain and stress in my body melting away.

  “I accept the position of Hollow Pack Alpha.” I say the words to everyone, but all I can focus on is Dustin.

  His hands cover mine, and he rests his forehead against my chest. He pulls back and says, “Everyone’s watching you.” He smirks at me, bright blue eyes sparkling with happiness.

  Happiness for me.

  Love for me… and the others too. I can feel that.

  His love for them. It makes me feel alive.

  “Then they’re going to love this.” I smirk back at him devilishly as I kiss him.

  His lips move slowly against mine, and I am more than aware that he’s never kissed me like this. It lights me up, every nerve in my body standing at full attention as he pours a lifetime of love into me with just his kiss.

  I am complete.

  We are a pack.

  When I pull away, remembering where we are, and how many eyes we have on us, I can’t help the blush on my face as I turn to Ranger and Rev. A zap of nerves strikes me as I realize everyone has just seen me kiss Dustin, even though my family thinks I’m with Rev. But I push it away for now, I’ll deal with it later.

  Ranger crosses his arms, raising an eyebrow at the two of us, and Rev just stands there, shaking his head.

  “You had to steal my moment, didn’t you, Dustin?” Rev teases.

  “What are you talking about?” Dustin stands with me, wrapping his arms around me.

  “Rev shifted last night.” I wrap my arms around his neck. Dustin’s eyes widened.

  “Damn. Sorry I missed that…” He runs his fingers up my back, settling them in my hair, wrapping the waves around his wrist, tugging gently.

  “I’m sorry for a lot of things. I hope you’ll give me the chance to make them up to you,” he whispers.

  I can hear the council behind us, shushing the crowd, trying to still the incessant chatter and disorder that has erupted.

  “The council ends this ceremony now to declare an emergency meeting. This is unprecedented, and therefore, we must take into consideration a great number of things before a final decision is made.” The Elder turns to me now, speaking in a quieter voice. “Jade Hollow, for the time being you will rule the Hollow Pack, until an official decision is made. We’ve yet to handle the other issues that have come to light.” His eyes flick to Reverie. “Everything will be discussed further at the meeting.”

  My heart swells with pride, and I turn my eyes from Dustin, and meet my father’s. He’s smiling and shaking his head.

  Ranger is at my side, and I can feel him with his arms around Dustin and I.

  “I think that’s our cue,” he says low enough so only we can hear him.

  “For what?” Dustin says, and I can feel as he breathes in my scent, his shoulders loosening. Like all the stress, all the pain, all the torment he’s held for so many years has dissolved into thin air.

  “For us to go home.” Reverie flanks Dustin and I on the other side.

  A small sound of contentment escapes Dustin’s lips.

  “Home sounds good,” he agrees.

  Dustin carries me all the way home, and Rev and Ranger don’t say a word.

  I think about the last time he carried me like this… after Rev had found him, saved his life. Brought him back to me.

  I tighten my arms around his neck, breathing in his scent of cedar and pine. I love the way he smells.

  Ranger holds the door for us as Dustin crosses the threshold.

  I smile at the thought as Rev falls in behind us, closing and locking the door.

  “Did you have enough to eat at the ceremony?” Ranger questions Dustin as he opens the fridge.

  “Actually, I barely touched a thing. All I had was a few beers.”

  Dustin settles in on the couch with me, and I close my eyes, resting my cheek on his chest and listening to the beat of his heart.

  “I think we still have some leftovers. Rev’s been cooking up a storm with all that pre-shift energy.” Ranger pulls out some containers from the fridge, and Rev settles on the other side of me. I can feel Dustin shift uncomfortably, his muscles tensing as Rev curls in next to me, but he doesn’t push him away.

  It’s a start.

  “Sorry I missed your shift, Rev. I know how big a deal that is.”

  “It’s probably better you weren’t here.” Rev’s tone isn’t mean, but casual.

  “Really, why’s that?” Dustin changes his position, and Rev pulls me close, situating my head against his chest. Dustin runs his hands up and down my legs in a rhythmic fashion—the lightest of touches.

  “Things got a little… out of hand.” Rev smiles down at me, and I can feel the blush creeping up my cheeks.

  I cover my face, worried that this is going too well and Rev’s words will snap Dustin back to reality. I still can’t believe he is here. Part of me thinks he’s just going to get up and run out again.

  Gentle hands pull mine away.

  “Don’t hide, baby.” Ranger’s gaze settles on me, his eyes are warm and bright, a knowing smirk on his lips.

  “Wild is my specialty.” Dustin smiles, blue eyes catching mine with interest.

  My heart races, and I can't help the words that come out of my mouth.

  “Well, you did say you have a lot of making up to do. Maybe you should start now.”

  Rev holds my arms still, and Dustin shifts me with a delicious force, pinning me beneath him, that bright, searing gaze of his bringing me to attention once more.

  “Is that a command, Alpha?” he purrs as he kisses my neck softly, tracing his tongue on the tight skin. I can feel Rev harden beneath me, and a part of me tenses, worried that Dustin will snap out of it at any minute, but when I feel Ranger’s hand in mine, squeezing just the slightest, I know there is nothing to be afraid of. Not anymore.

  “Yes, it is,” I whisper darkly.

  Dustin kisses me, and I can't move, trapped beneath his weight with Rev’s aching hard-on pressed into my back. But I don't want to move.

  “Tell me what you want, Jade,” Dustin whispers.

  Rev runs his fingers through my hair, and Ranger tugs on my hand, bringing it up to his lips.

  “You…” I breathe.

  “All of you. My pack.”

  Dustin stills, and I can feel his apprehension as he sits up, taking that delicious weight of his body off of me. I worry I have said something wrong, but when he looks at Reverie and then Ranger with a twinkle in his eye… I see it.

  The love he has for them. For us.

  “I don’t think the couch is going to fit us all, baby.” Ranger snickers.

  Rev picks me up, and kisses me, holding me close.

  “I think we can fix that.” He carries me down the hall, and Ranger and Dustin follow us into the darkness of the bedroom we’ve been staying in.

  Chapter 55

  Jade

  The bed may still be a tight fit for all of us, but I think we can make it work.

  Rev places me on the bed, my back hitting the soft mattress. He crawls on top of me, spreading my legs with his knees and grinding his erection into me. His lips find mine, kissing me in a teasing, playful way. A way that reminds me more of Ranger than him. He tilts his head to the side, not breaking the contact. I see Dustin’s gaze on us, but he doesn’t look angry. He looks intrigued.

  “Who knows?” Rev whispers in my ear after moving his lips to my neck. “Maybe that temper of his will come in handy in the bedroom? I bet Ranger will like it.” He nips my earlobe, and his words have me bucking my hips up, chasing the friction I need. It’s been hard to contain myself with just Rev and Ranger, nevermind adding Dustin to the mix.

  Thinking about Ranger and Dustin together… The thought alone has my panties soaked.

  Rev pulls back, getting off the bed and to his feet. He rips his shirt off over his head and looks to where Dustin and Ranger are staring. “You just gonna watch?” Dustin scoffs as Ranger shrugs.

  “I wouldn’t mind watching,” Ranger says playfully, taking a step back.

  “If anyone is watching anything, it’s me,” I add.

  “We have forever, baby, we can all take turns,” Ranger assures me.