Chapter 18

"You must be Ella."

The voice makes me blink in surprise, and clutch the towel around me tighter to my body. My gaze searches out the source of the feminine voice, a young shewolf standing by the windows. She pulls back the curtains and sunlight pours into the bedroom, radiating through her and making her smile appear effortless.

This girl—around my age I guess—truly is beautiful, with dark blonde hair in a neat ponytail, a wilful and cheery face, and a figure that isn't quite slim, but toned with muscles and athletic strength.

My eyes take in her appearance in an instant, female to female, assessing her as either friend or foe. She looks formidable in well-worn trainers, tight exercise pants, a loose tank, and an energy lingering in her hands that had just straightened the curtains.

"It's actually Ariella," I take her offered hand and try not to wince at the strong shake she gives it.

Her smile falters for a brief moment. "But Malachi said—"

"He didn't know my full name when we first