I turn and see Marina leaning against the doorframe, but there’s nothing casual about her. Her dark hair is pulled back in that severe style she favors, and her sharp, green eyes assess me with an intensity that makes my spine straighten automatically.
“Marina.” I smile, wondering what is about to happen. “What are you doing here?”
“Collecting you.” She says it like it’s a fact, nota request. “My brother has been avoiding me for months. Won’t answer messages. Dodges me in the palace. Makes excuses.” Her expression doesn’t change, but there’s a mischievous glint in her eyes. “If he thinks he can continue avoiding me, he’s sorely mistaken.”
My heart rate picks up. Not from fear—more from anticipation of Seth’s reaction when he finds out.
Her expression softens slightly as she looks at me—just a fraction, but enough that I can breathe easier. “You’re not in trouble, dear. But you are coming to dinner at the estate. Tonight. Seth can’t avoid me if he wants to be with you. I hope that’s alright?”
“Of course,” I say, smiling for real now. “It’ll be nice to see you and your sisters again.”
Marina nods in approval. “Good.” She takes two steps and picks up my bag before I can reach for it. “How are things between you and Seth?”
“They’re good,” I say, unable to stop the warmth that creeps into my voice. “Really good.”
Marina’s sharp eyes study me for a moment, then she laughs—a genuine sound that transforms her face. “So, you’ve accepted him.”
I nod shyly.
“Welcome to the family, Selene. Officially.” She pauses. “I’ve already sent him a message that his mate is with me.” An almost predatory look crosses her face. “Let’s see how fast he can run over.”
The Rowan familyestate is nothing like I imagined. As we drive through wrought-iron gates, past manicured gardens and a fountain that belongs in a museum, I can’t stop staring.
“This is where Seth grew up?” I ask.
“Yes.” Marina glances at me. “Overwhelming, isn’t it?”
The mansion looms ahead, all stone and windows and old money.
“Don’t look so worried,” Marina says as we pull up. “It’s just a house. And you’re family now.”
She leads me through the front door—marble floors, crystal chandelier—and up a sweeping staircase.
“Dinner’s in an hour,” she says. “You’ll want to shower and change. I’ve had some things prepared for you.”
“You didn’t have to—”
“Of course I did. You’re Seth’s mate.” She opens the door. “This is his suite. There are clothes in the closet. Take your time.”
I step inside, taking in the beautiful room.
“When Seth arrives, I’ll have him come get you for dinner.” She reaches out to briefly touch my shoulder. “I’m glad he found you, Selene.” Then, she’s all business again. “I’ll see you downstairs.”
The bathroom is ridiculous. Marble everywhere, a massive tub, and a steam shower with more jets than I can count.
The water is blissfully hot, and I wash my hair with Seth’s shampoo since mine’s not here. Being surrounded by his familiar scent helps calm my nerves as well as my wolf’s.
The closet has clothes that are clearly meant for me—my size, elegant but not overly formal. I choose a black dress that fits perfectly, then dry my hair and apply makeup.
When I see myself in the mirror, I look happy.
I’ve just finished getting ready when the door bursts open. Seth rushes in, slightly out of breath, his eyes wild until they land on me. Then, he’s moving, crossing the space in long strides.
His hands come up immediately, framing my face as his gaze sweeps over me. Checking. Assessing.
“Are you alright?” he asks me urgently. His hands move down to my shoulders, then my arms. “Did she—Marina didn’t hurt you? Didn’t say anything—”
“Seth.” I catch his wrists. “I’m fine. She was wonderful to me.”
