The next day passed in a blur of tension and stolen glances. Every time Laura and Zephyr found themselves alone, someone would appear with a question or problem that needed the Alpha's attention. By evening, Laura felt like she might burst from the unresolved energy between them.
She was reading in her room when a soft knock came at her door.
"Come in," she called, expecting Mira.
Instead, Zephyr stepped inside, quietly closing the door behind him. He looked different somehow—less the imposing Alpha and more just a man, with his hair slightly mussed and wearing a simple dark shirt that hugged his broad shoulders.
"Hi," he said, his voice low.
Laura's heart skipped. "Hi."
"Do you have a minute?" he asked, though he made no move to come closer.
"I have several," Laura said, setting he
