Rejected by the Alpha, Claimed by the Beast
now, carrying that unmistakable scent of salt and distant tides. She stood at the far edge of the stone expanse, facing the horizon as though she had been waiting for us long before we arrived. Up close, her presence was neither overwhelming nor meek. It was composed. Her silver hair moved freely in the wind, and her bare feet rested against cold stone without discomfort. When she turned, her eyes settled first on me. Recognition flared instantly between us, not dramatic, not explosive, but undeniable. “You hold it well,” she said, her voice calm and clear. “The veil.” Kael stepped slightly forward, not blocking me but positioning himself unmistakably at my side. “State your purpose,” he sa