Tangled in Moonlight: Unshifted (Ava and Lucas)

Chapter 360 Lucas: Post-Blizzard Return

LUCAS

Ava's nowhere to be found, but Aurum is quick to let me know she's checking on her wards again.

He sounds grumpy, and I don't blame him.

The woman's turned into a bit of a workaholic when it comes to her magic wards. I don't understand them—they're far more advanced and finicky compared to the pack wards we've used for generations. She says it's because they're practically useless, but I think they work just fine.

Aside from the vampire problem, which probably means she's right. But it still shouldn't need to go out near-daily to check on them, right?

But I can appreciate her dedication to our pack's safety, and it's true no one's stumbled upon us since she put them up.

It would just be nice if she'd check on her mate as religiously as she checks on those damn wards.

Jealousy, Aurum whispers in the back of my head.

Shut up. You feel the same way.

His agreement is without guile. Aurum is true to himself and comfortable with his insecurity involving our mates. Goddess knows he makes a scene around Selene whenever he gets a chance.

Mate, he says wistfully.

The cold seeps into my bones, and I head straight for the shower, eager to warm

to spend the night

And more.

her skin. Aurum rumbles his approval in the back of my mind. Just as I'm imagining the sound of her cries as I slam into her from

straining to hear. It's hard to smell anything over the powerful scent of Ava's bodywash—something I've gotten into the habit

waist, tracking water everywhere as I head to the living room. Whoever it is,

scent hits me

Ivy.

hell is she doing

when she isn't here. Ava's absence means Ivy waltzed

my voice

gaze makes my skin crawl. She takes a step closer,

in her tracks. Her eyes widen. There's fear, yes, but something else I'd rather not name. I've been doing my

breathily, recovering quickly. "I apologize for the intrusion. I have urgent news about the food supplies. We're running dangerously low

"And this couldn't wait until morning? Or be relayed

green eyes wide and innocent. "I thought it best

surface. But I've been an alpha too long to fall for such transparent manipulation. And the way

barge into the Alpha's quarters for such a paltry reason. Food supplies, while

charge of the food situation here. Any further concerns should be brought to her attention first,

twists for a moment before smoothing out. "Of course, Alpha. I meant no disrespect. I simply

I interrupt, my patience wearing thin.