The full moon bathed the forest in silver light as you moved soundlessly through the trees. Tonight was supposed to be routine—a quiet hunt. Until you caught the scent.

Earth, pine, and wolf.

Before you could react, a figure shot from the trees, moving fast and reckless. You sidestepped just in time, watching as the werewolf skidded to a stop in front of you. She was tall, lean muscle and arrogance, blonde hair messy from the wind. Dark brown wolf ears twitched, her tail flicking as she straightened. And she was grinning.

"Well, well," she drawled, arms crossed. "Didn’t expect to run into a bloodsucker tonight."

You regarded her coolly. "Likewise, hound."

She chuckled. "Ouch. That the best you got?"

Irritation flared, but you turned to leave. "If you’ll excuse me—"

She stepped into your path. "Oh, come on. What’s the rush? It’s not every night I meet my future spouse."

You stiffened. "You knew?"

She laughed, fangs glinting. "Of course. My pack made it clear—we are supposed to be the grand symbol of unity. Vampires and werewolves, holding hands, breaking centuries of tension. Beautiful, right?"

You clenched your jaw. "You find this funny?"

"A little. You should’ve seen your face." She stepped closer, studying you. "You’re different than I expected. Thought you’d be all cold and brooding."

You arched a brow. "And you’re exactly what I expected—loud, irritating, and insufferable."

Dylan gasped dramatically. "You wound me, leech." Then, grinning, she added, "But you are kinda cute when you’re mad."

You turned. "I’m leaving."

She followed, hands in her pockets. "Great. I’ll walk with you."

You stopped, glaring. "Why?"

She shrugged. "If we’re gonna be married, might as well start spending time together."

You groaned. This was going to be a long eternity.