The she-wolf was sitting with the younger pups, teaching them to read.

The Director of the orphanage walked over to them, frowning as she bit her lip.

“Is something wrong?” The girl asked.

“I don’t know. I’ve received word the Alpha wants to see you.”

“I haven’t done anything, have I?” A chill breeze prickled her skin. Surely not possible. Not on such a hot day. But she felt as if she had been touched by something.

“I don’t think so. Hurry. You don’t want to keep her waiting.”

The she-wolf ran to the pack house, arriving out of breath. She approached the guard, her hand on her chest as if to slow her breathing.

“The Alpha wants to see me.”

“Go in. The hallway on the right. You’ll see the guard at her door.”

After a deep breath, she entered. The cool interior should have felt comforting after the summer heat outside, but that chill breeze from before still haunted her.

“She called for me,” she told the guard.

He nodded, and after a quick tap, he opened the door. “Alpha…”

“Yes…oh, let her in.”

The guard nodded.

The Alpha sat at her desk.

“You are eighteen. Correct?”

“Yes, Alpha. About three months ago, I…”

“Time to leave the orphanage.”

“I…” Her mind went blank, as her stomach twisted. “Where…?”

“You need a job. I have made…”

“I’ve been working with the children. Teaching them to read. And do numbers.” The girl didn’t realize she’d interrupted the Alpha, but the woman let it go. Normally, such disrespect would mean a few days of food rations or the dungeon.

“The pack comes first. You’ll be starting work in their laundry.”

Her shoulders slumped as hope disappeared from her face.

“Off on Saturday afternoons.” Her words fell on the girl’s shoulders like a cold rain. “Your free time is your own. The guard will call an escort. Dismissed.”

“Yes, Alpha.” She bowed her head and left the room. Arguing was out of the question. At the door, she was met by a thin, austere she-wolf dressed all in black, and followed her to the basement.

*

The laundry was at the end of a long, musty corridor. The dampness had already begun to cling, like the mold whose smell filled her nose. The glaring brightness of the laundry contrasted with the shadows of the corridor. She blinked several times before the increased light was bearable. She was given a black cotton dress to wear, along with black utility shoes.

“You have one more uniform in the closet. Make sure you wear it anytime you’re at work.”

The young girl put on the oversized black dress. She bit her lip as she picked up soiled sheets and tossed them into the industrial-sized washer. She didn’t know when she’d get her wolf, but every birthday, she prayed to the Moon Goddess for it. She would find her mate here—or leave to search for him. She would still dream. But after the woman left, she didn’t try to stop the tears.

She soon fell into a routine, staying in the laundry except for meals and going to the orphanage on Saturday afternoons to teach. One day blurred into the next, as she looked forward to each birthday, praying to the Moon Goddess for her wolf.

*

She’d been in the laundry for almost three years now, with most of her spare time spent at the orphanage. She was looking forward to her next birthday—her twenty-first. Surely her wolf would show up that day. She and Tommy sat under the tall willow tree.

“Okay, read…” She stopped.

A black car pulled up in front of the pack house. The Butler opened the door with a bow; a man stepped out. He was several inches taller than the Butler, who now stood at attention.

“Welcome, sir.”

The visitor nodded as he brushed an invisible crease from his jacket. He was ready to step forward, but something undeniable pulled his gaze toward the girl. Their eyes locked for a brief moment, and she realized she was staring.

He felt shaken. Yet he had no explanation for it.

She looked away, but from the corner of her eye, she knew the man watched her for a moment before going into the pack house. A shiver ran down her spine in spite of the warm sunshine. As the door closed behind him, she looked up, his lingering presence having a hold on her. Her wolf stirred—hopeful.

He was escorted to the Alpha’s office.

“May I get you a drink or…”

“No. Let’s get our business done.” Even relaxing in the chair, he was a commanding presence.

Agreements were signed, allowing the exchange of water for lumber.

“Well…”

“Who is the girl with the child?” he interrupted.

“What girl?”

“Under the willow tree.”

“The laundry girl. She teaches the orphans on her afternoon off.”

“Her name?”

“I never asked. She’s an orphan. I assigned her to the laundry after she turned eighteen.”

“She’s eighteen?” He looked disappointed.

“Well, it’s been a while. She must be close to twenty-one now. She’ll get her wolf soon, I imagine. Why the interest?”

“Idle curiosity. I’ll take my leave. Good day.”

Her eyes narrowed as he left. She suspected it wasn’t ‛idle curiosity’.

The young woman stood with her hand on the willow tree as she watched him exit. The sunlight glinted on his blonde hair, but the black patch over his left eye took away any boyishness that was hinted at. He intrigued her. The warm breeze caressed her skin and twirled her hair about her face. She sighed, wishing he would talk to her and make the terrible ache in her chest go away. She shook her head. She didn’t know him. What was this longing she felt when looking at him?

He must be an Alpha. What could he have to say to a laundry girl? A single tear slid down her cheek.

He stood, his hand on the top of the door, and paused before getting into the car, something jerking him back. He looked her way—their eyes locked. He could feel it. The pull.

This time, she didn’t look away. He did.

As the vehicle headed down the road, the guard sagged slightly as the Butler returned to the house.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you stand so straight.”

“Wouldn’t take chances with him. He was looking at the girl. Bad for her if he’s interested.”

The man nodded in agreement, looking down the road as the dust settled behind the departing car. “I know what you mean. He makes my blood run cold.”

*

A month later, as she stared out the window by the front door, the black car pulled up again. She panicked as the Butler opened the car door and the Alpha stood. Turning, she hurried down the hallway that would take her back to her room.

He saw her walking quickly away. She paused at the corner to look back, just before she disappeared. His eyes narrowed. The Alpha realized she showed no fear of him. Could she be twenty-one and have her wolf without her Alpha knowing? She had been watching him. Had she sensed it too? As he saw her, he considered leaving. What if he was wrong? Had he imagined it? He’d find out soon enough.

“Alpha. Nice to see you.”

“Luna. My pleasure.”

“My sister is waiting for you.”

“Thank you.” She walked with him to the office, neither speaking.

At the door, she nodded. “Good day, Alpha.”

“Thank you.”

So handsome. But the eye patch and the small scar below it scared most people, in spite of his youth. The way he spoke, the way he carried himself—danger rippled off of him in waves. Not many had dared to challenge him. She stood a little straighter, trying to ignore the cold wave that ran up her spine. Heels clicking loudly, she walked down the hallway, pulling her shawl more tightly about her shoulders.

*

The guard at the door knocked and opened it.

“Alpha…”

“Let him in. Good to see you again.”

She walked forward and shook his hand, repressing a tremor of disquiet. “What can I do for you today?”

“I have a business proposition,” he said, sitting down.

The Alpha sat behind her desk. “Oh?”

“I want the laundry girl. What do you want for her?”

The Alpha’s mouth hung open for a moment. “What? She’s nobody. An orphan who outgrew the facility.”

A silent stare greeted her.

She sighed deeply. “Guard!”

“Yes, Alpha.”

“Get the laundry girl.” She turned back. “Perhaps I misunderstood. Has she insulted you?”

“No.”

“You want her?”

“Yes.”

“We found her outside the grounds, at the gate. An infant. No note…nothing. I have other she-wolves who are more suitable for an Alpha.”

“The girl will do.”

She sighed and shook her head. “Very well. She’s good at doing the laundry. She doesn’t eat much. She’s quiet, obedient, and gets along well…”

“Trying to raise the price?” His eyes narrowed; his voice low and controlled.

She stumbled over her words as she heard the implied threat. “No…no…I…”

The door opened, and the girl came in, wearing the oversized uniform. “You wanted to see me, Alpha?” She stopped as she realized he was here. And his eyes were on her. He looked relaxed, powerful. Not scary. And his scent—rosemary, sage, and—juniper berry. She smiled.

“You’re staring at my guest!”

“I’m sorry, Alpha. I meant no disrespect.” The girl lowered her head, keeping her eyes on the floor. The shadow of a smile stayed.

Mate, whispered her wolf, Callie.

Shh. They don’t know about you.

“I won’t tolerate…”

“Can we get back to business?” The Alpha cut in, his tone simmering with restraint. It wasn’t a question.

“This Alpha wants to buy you. What do you say?”

“It’s not up to me.” She looked down, her eyes narrowed, her mouth forming a thin line. She inhaled a deep breath to calm herself. Why not claim her? His scent was strong, and she knew what that pull had meant.

“This is between us. What is your price?”

“Well, she’s valuable. A hard worker, she teaches the children. Difficult to replace.”

The visiting Alpha sat quietly as he looked up at the girl. He could scent lemon and lavender, and a hint of chamomile. He breathed deeply. He hadn’t been mistaken. “Will you go with me?”

“I’m sure she’d rather stay here. She does well in the laundry. I…”

“Answer me,” he ordered.

She felt the pressure on her chest as her breathing became more rapid. Her eyes darted between the two Alphas, but her eyes locked on him as he stared at her. Her heart beat faster. It wasn’t just his scent that pulled her in. His eyes. She wanted to stare at them forever. “Yes,” she whispered and smiled at her mate.

“She belongs here. I don’t think I should let her go.”

“You have until she returns with her belongings. Have a price, or I pay nothing.” He turned. “Go. Get your things. We’ll leave immediately.”

She ran out of the room, heart pounding, hoping he wouldn’t change his mind. What could the Moon Goddess have been thinking when she paired an Alpha and a laundry girl?

“Well?”

“She’s not for sale.”

“I’m leaving with her. The only question is whether you get paid.”

The girl rummaged through the rag bin and found a piece of a torn apron to hold her belongings. She knotted them inside and carried the small bundle in her arms as she raced back to the Alpha’s office.

He was standing, putting on his gloves.

Behind the desk, the woman fumed, her face flushed. “Half a load of wood is hardly sufficient payment.”

He glanced at the girl and her small bundle.

“This is all you have?”

She nodded.

“No coat?”

“No, Alpha.”

He shook his head and sighed as he took off his coat. “Give me the bundle.” Then he put his coat around her.

She swam in it, but as she pulled it close, it was like being wrapped in a blanket he had warmed for her. She closed her eyes, breathing deeply of juniper berry, hoping she was right about him.

A small smile tugged at the corners of his mouth.

“You’re not taking her.”

“I am.”

“Why do you insist on claiming…oh. You’re claiming her.”

He drew a deep breath. “Let’s go.”

*

As her previous home receded out of the back window, the enormity of what she was doing hit her. She shivered.

“Are you cold?”

“No, Alpha.”

He could see her hands were tightly clasped, yet still shaking. “Don’t be afraid. I won’t hurt you.”

She nodded and turned her attention to the scenery flying past. The snow fell harder as they headed north.

At the house, he called for the head housekeeper as he took his coat from her. “Show her to her room. Make sure she gets something hot to drink.” He handed the bundle to the girl. “You should find everything you need in your room. If I’ve forgotten anything, speak up. Dinner is at six. Don’t be late.”

“Yes, Alpha.”

The housekeeper smiled and led her to a bedroom upstairs.

“Um…I think you’ve made a mistake. I should be in the servants’ quarters.”

“No. Alpha told me this bedroom. He was quite clear about it. His suite is right across the hallway. I’ll have a cup of hot chocolate sent up immediately. Someone will show you to the dining room when it’s time.”

Her room included a sitting area, a beautiful bed, a dressing area next to the ensuite, a matching dresser, a vanity, and bookshelves. She chose a book about a little seaside town in which a woman liked to solve murders. She curled up, sipping hot chocolate, and began to read, only to fall asleep and dream of being chased by a woman on a bicycle.

As the sun left to start a new day elsewhere, Callie woke her. “Why do you think you belong in the servant’s quarters? You’re his mate.”

“But he hasn’t said a word about it.”

“He doesn’t know I’m here. He thinks you’re not aware. Tell him.”

*

Just before six, there was a knock on the door, and a young woman came in. “It’s time for dinner. You mustn’t be late.”

“I’m ready, but I’m too nervous to eat.”

The maid smiled. “Come.”

The lighted wall sconces gave a soft, shadowy look in the hallway. She followed the servant and arrived in time to see the Alpha enter. As she followed, he pulled out the chair opposite his and seated her.

“Are your new clothes satisfactory?”

“Yes. They’re quite nice. Thank you.”

He nodded. “Remember when we have visitors, you’re expected to wear a dress to meals.”

“Yes, sir.” She reached for the glass of wine to hide her awkwardness. He didn’t comment that she started before him, but he did note her mistake.

They started with appetizers, and he noticed she never picked up a knife or fork until she saw which one he was using. She was hesitant, nervous.

After several courses, he finished and stood. “Do you require anything else for the evening?”

“No.” She looked up at him. “I’m fine. Thank you.”

She sat for a few moments, watching as servants cleared the table.

*

As she emerged from a hot shower, she wondered if he’d be knocking on her door? She considered locking it, but that was futile against an Alpha. She snuggled in bed, her fingers pulling the comforter close to her chin. She heard the floor creak outside her door. Pulling the covers over her head, she heard nothing more.

The silence pressed in.

Her eyes popped open. She hadn’t expected to sleep at all, but it was daylight, and there was a tapping at her door. The same young servant from last night entered.

“Good morning, miss. Time to get up. Alpha gets upset when people are late.” She went to the closet and pulled out an outfit.

“I guess I’d better hurry. What does he do to people who are late?”

“Once, a visiting Alpha was late by half an hour, and he was furious when Alpha wouldn’t meet with him. He won’t tolerate lateness.”

“Why is he so rigid?”

“The Butler said it was after Alpha came back from the war in South America. He wouldn’t say any more. Alpha never speaks about it, and neither does anyone else.”

The girl walked over to the windows and opened the draperies.

“We don’t open the draperies, Miss.”

“It’s my room. They’re going to be open every day.”

Entering the dining room, she saw him standing at her chair. The approaching storm, combined with the heavy draperies, made the room dark and foreboding. She walked up to the windows and flung back the draperies, letting in what little light there was. She saw him staring, his jaw tightened, but he said nothing as he waited for her.

Breakfast was informal and over quickly.

“Will you be busy today?” she asked, as he stood.

“I have work to do. You may amuse yourself however you wish. I’ll see you at lunch.”

“Where’s his office?” She asked the servant who was clearing the table.

“First floor. I wouldn’t bother him.”

“The girl smiled.”

*

He gave her a stern look, but she walked to the windows, throwing back the draperies on all three of them, bathing the room in dull, grey light.

“What do you think you’re doing?”

She paused but reached out to put a hand on his shoulder. “It’s time to come into the light.”

He paused, looking into her eyes for a moment. Hesitantly, he reached out and took her hand in his.