The offer

“Go in and talk?” Charlotte asked.

Her pleading eyes met Derek’s, and for a moment, the tension in the air seemed to hold its breath. Derek’s grip on her arm tightened slightly before he exhaled, his shoulders relaxing. He nodded reluctantly.

“Alright,” Derek said, his voice softer now. “Let’s talk.”

Nathan gestured toward the house. “Follow me. We’ll be more comfortable inside.”

Nathan motioned for them to sit on the plush sofas circling the fireplace. Austin and James took their places by the door, protecting Nathan and showcasing his authority.

Derek looked at Nathan expectantly. “Alright, Nathan. Explain yourself.”

Nathan gently cleared his throat. “You see, this world is not only full of humans, as you well know with Jessica. There are enemies of nature, and there are friends of nature. I am Jessica’s nemesis; we are werewolves born into different packs. We look like humans, but we can transform. Our bites are poisonous to vampires.”

“What...?” Derek’s voice was a mix of disbelie