When Juke reappeared, his footsteps were lighter on the hardwood floor— his mood seemed to have lifted. The tension had eased from his shoulders, though his eyes still held concern. "They will be here soon. Paul said he's bringing dinner."
"You guys really do have dinner early. It's a quarter after three." Kirk glanced at his watch, raising his eyebrows.
"Dale hasn't eaten. So we'll feed—then I will see you gone. I need to speak with Dale." The possessiveness in Juke's tone made Dale's wolf stir with interest.
A short time later, Leah and Paul arrived, bringing the rich aroma of cooked food that made Dale's stomach growl. Jazz had tagged along, adding familiar warmth to the room. While Jazz and Leah busied themselves in the kitchen, the sounds of plates and cutlery creating a domestic symphony, Paul pulled Juke and Dale aside.
His face was serious as he explained that Jared had called an emergency council meeting that night. Also, Juke's grandmother had arranged for Dale to meet with
