Alexander's POV I watched Summer's eyes widen at my question, her lips parting slightly in surprise. Knotting was sacred among our kind—the deepest connection an alpha could form with his mate, and often led to creating new life. "Are you sure?" Summer whispered, her fingers tracing the contour of my jaw. "That's... that's a big step, Alexander." My wolf, Orion, pawed restlessly inside me, desperate to claim her completely. Through our connection, I could sense her wolf Aurora's reciprocal desire, but also something else—a shadow of old pain that never quite disappeared. "I've never been more certain of anything," I told her, pressing my forehead against hers. "I want to share everything with you, Summer. I want to create a family with you." I hesitated, knowing I neede

