Page 63 of Sun's Roar

“It was overwhelming at first,” Lorelei admitted. “But, Helena, I’ve never been happier. Draken is everything to me, and the pack feels like the family I never knew I needed. Plus, I’m still designing buildings—just with a few earth-moving shortcuts now.”

“You’re still working as an architect?” Hope bloomed in Helena’s chest.

“Of course! The Luna isn’t just a pretty ornament on the alpha’s arm. Our powers and perspectives make us valuable leaders. Draken says my strategic mind helps balance his instinctive one.”

Helena twirled her hair. “I miss my kitchen.”

“So build one. A spectacular one. Cook for your pack. Start a restaurant on pack territory. Sol would move mountains for you—I’m sure a commercial kitchen isn’t out of the question.”

The possibilities unfurled before Helena like a map to a future both strange and wonderful. “It’s really possible to have both worlds?”

“It’s not just possible, it’s necessary,” Lorelei said firmly. “We’re stronger because we bring our human experiences to our Luna roles. And Helena? I’m so happy we’re in this together. Wolf queen best friends—who would have thought?”

Warmth spread through Helena’s chest. “We’ll have to get the packs together sometime.”

“Absolutely. Though I warn you, my white wolf could definitely take down your russet one,” Lorelei teased.

They laughed together, and for the first time since her transformation, Helena felt truly grounded.

After saying good-bye, Helena tilted her face to the moon, breathing deeply. The scent of pine and night-blooming flowersfilled her lungs, along with something else—the distinctive cedar and smoke scent that was purely Sol.

“Planning to howl at the moon without me?” His deep voice rolled over her like velvet as he stepped onto the balcony.

Helena turned, drinking in the sight of him. He’d loosened his tie and unbuttoned his collar, revealing a tantalizing glimpse of tanned skin and the edge of his pack tattoo. Her mate. Her Alpha. Her home.

“I was just talking to Lorelei. Did you know she’s the Luna of the Moonshadow pack?”

Sol’s eyebrows rose. “Draken’s mate? That’s your college friend?” He moved closer, his powerful frame blocking out the moonlight. “Small world.”

“She just helped me see that I don’t have to choose between my old life and this one.” Helena stepped into his space, placing a hand on his chest. “That I can be both your Luna and still be Helena the chef.”

Sol’s green eyes darkened as he wrapped his strong arms around her waist. “I would never ask you to be less than who you are. Everything you are is what makes you mine.”

“I was afraid I’d have to give up cooking.”

“Give up?” Sol chuckled, the sound rumbling through his chest and into hers. “Our pack would riot if they lost the chance to taste your food. My kitchen is yours to command, Luna.”

Helena felt tears prick her eyes. “I’m so lucky to have found you.”

“I’m the fortunate one,” Sol murmured, his thumb brushing across her cheek. “I’ve lived centuries waiting for a woman who could match my fire.”

His mouth claimed hers then, demanding and possessive. She melted against him, her body igniting with the familiar heat that only Sol could kindle.

EPILOGUE

Helena waddled through the gleaming doors of her old restaurant, one hand supporting her enormous belly while the other rested in the protective grip of her mate. Nine months pregnant with what felt like a litter of wolf pups inside her, she had insisted on making this trip despite Sol’s initial objections. The scent of seared butter and caramelized onions hit her nose immediately, triggering a wave of nostalgia so powerful, she had to blink back tears.

“Easy there, my Luna,” Sol murmured, his fingers tightening around hers as he steadied her. “These hormones of yours are making the temperature rise in here.” He nodded toward the small candles on the nearest table, which had flared dangerously high for a moment.

Helena took a steadying breath. “Sorry. It’s just... being back here feels like visiting an old friend.”

The restaurant looked better than she remembered—Tyanna had redecorated with warm copper accents that complemented the exposed brick walls. The lunch rush was in full swing, tables filled with chattering patrons enjoying Marco’s creations.

“Helena!” Tyanna squealed, abandoning her conversation with a customer to rush over. Her eyes widened at Helena’sprominent belly. “Look at you! You’re absolutely glowing! And huge! Are you sure there’s just two in there?”

Helena laughed, rubbing her stomach where one of the babies had just delivered a particularly enthusiastic kick. “Some days I think there might be an entire pack.”

“My pups,” Sol said with unmistakable pride, his hand sliding possessively around Helena’s waist. “Strong already.”

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