“Cold air clawed at my face, ripping tears from my eyes. I buried my face deep into Daniel's back and breathed in a mixture of familiar scents - almonds, oil paint, earth, and a hint of varnish. I didn't even question why I was on that bike. I just knew I was suppose to be.”

“I flipped open my phone and sent Daniel a text: I love you.As I crawled into bed, my phone beeped with a message back from him: Always.”

“I was about to ask about it when Daniel flopped down on the mattress. He pulled off his shoes and went for the zipper of his jumpsuit. A flash of panic went through my body. I turned my head and lowered my gaze."Don't worry prescious," Daniel said "I'm not going to violate your virgin eyes.”

“Talbot's eyes widened as he recognised Daniel. The four lost boys got out of the car and stood behind their alpha."So he's back?" Talbot asked."Yep." I couldn't stop smiling a bit and thinking of that song from the oldies station my Grandpa Kramer used to listen to. My boyfriend's back and you're gonna be in trouble...”

“You know I can't do that. Pete's probably already spent a ton of money. He's a nice guy. I can'tjust bail--"Pete's not as nice as you think," Daniel grumbled.I laughed. "Are you jealous? Pete's just a friend--"Daniel grabbed me by the hips. "Of course I'm jealous, Gracie. You just told me that you love mebut you are going out with another guy. But this is more important than my jealousy. If I'mstaying here, then you have to stay in. I've got enough to keep my eye on. I can't have you outthere. Not tonight.”

“Stop!" I sent my open hand sailing and slapped Talbot across his face. He let go of the spear and stared down at me-that rage burning in his eyes. Then he blinked and clutched his palm over the red hand-shaped mark I'd left on his face. "What was that for!" "He submitted.Let.Him.Go.”

“Blood fills my mouth. Fire sears my veins. I choke back a howl. The silver knife slips--thechoice is mine.I am death or life. I am salvation or destruction. Angel or demon.I am grace.I plunge in the knife.This is my sacrifice--I am the monster.”