9. Wyatt

9

WYATT

I feel the change take over me, moving through my body, a living entity full of power and strength. My body stretches, my bones snapping and extending. My skin melts away, fur and new flesh replacing it.

I drop onto all fours, my hands turning into paws, my nails into claws. I dig them into the dirt, feeling my nose elongate, my mouth and snout now that of a wolf.

I shake my big body, fur moving over my muscles and bones.

I tip my head back and howl.

Freedom.

I turn my head and stare at Kendra. She looks nervous, anxious. I don't blame her.

I walk up to her, her body tight, her eyes wide. I inhale deeply, not sensing any fear, but instead can tell she's excited and full of wonder.

This is all so new to her.

Mine.

My mate.

My wolf wants her to shift so that we can run together. He's got the front seat now that I am turned.

I butt my head up against her hand, making a low sound in the back of my throat when she runs her fingers through my fur, around my ear, and down my neck.

I need her to shift, need her to run with me, for us to be fully immersed in this world together.

I need the pack to see that as Alpha, I've found my mate. She will be by my side always, and they'll accept her. They won't have a choice or they'll deal with me and my beast.

"God, I can't believe this is real," she says, but I sense her acceptance. Finally, she takes a step back. I open up my mind for her, so she can read it, so she knows what I'm thinking.

"I'm here for you. Always. We're waiting, mate. Shift. Run with us. Feel the freedom the change brings."

"I don't know what I'm doing," she responds, sounding hesitant now.

"Just close your eyes and let your wolf rise up. She'll know what to do. She'll take the lead."