ISLA I felt a pang of disappointment and hurt when Lucian pushed me away after accepting our wolf bond. But as I saw Elias and Jace approaching, I realized why he did that. Maybe he didn't want anyone to know that I was his mate now. Fear still gripped me as I saw Elias's face, his intense gaze and the memory of him breaking down my door flashing in my mind. The growling and snarling that had terrified me came flooding back, and I instinctively hid behind Lucian, feeling safer with him by my side. I peeked out from behind Lucian, seeing Elias's worried expression, but my fear still lingered. I knew I had to be careful around him, at least until I understood the dynamics between us better. For now, I was grateful to have Lucian's protection. “Is she okay?” Elias asked if I was okay, his