All werewolves know, in a theoretical sense, about the mating scent. The idea that optimal partners will smell particularly appealing to our wolves. But there’s nothing binding about the special pheromone. The fragrance is different for all of us, and a wolf can have more than one person with mating potential. We can also take a mate without the alluring scent.

And someone who smells like the perfect mate is plenty capable of rejecting us.

I clench my jaw and try to shrug off the discomfort from the idea that Zoey might not be okay with mating a small-town werewolf.

Already, I’m doubting my chances after breaking down and watching the video of her ex getting mocked by a barbershop quartet. Wasn’t hard to find online, and I spent a good five minutes dying of laughter at the horrified expression on the dick’s face.

But then I took a closer look at the asshole.

The guy’s hair was styled with gel, his button-up shirt free of wrinkles and neatly tucked into slacks. There was a sparkle of a thick watch on his wrist, and the humiliating serenade took place inside of an office with huge windows overlooking Denver.

I glance down at my grease-smeared jeans and T-shirt. My work boots are scuffed, and I’ve never done more than comb my hair after I get out of a shower.

Zoey’s ex is on the opposite end of the spectrum from me, and I can’t help comparing myself to him.

Is that what she goes for? The well-dressed corporate type?

I barely stop myself from swiping a grimy hand across my forehead, grimacing at the black marks on my fingers I’ve never noticed before.

I’ll never be like that. Not in a million years.

But I can at least make sure to clean myself up before I track her down again. Maybe swing by the store to get some more shirts without holes in them. Anything to get her to give me a chance as a man. After that, we can deal with the wolf.

“This was not a date. I am not going to fall in love with you, Warner Jameson.”

She didn’t tell me to stay away from her. She didn’t say she didn’t want to know me. In fact, her statements almost seemed like she was trying to convince herself of them, not me.

Zoey Gunner is a challenge. She’s long-term.

She’s already crawling under my skin, melding herself into my thoughts of the future.

What would it be like to have Zoey as my mate?

A partner. My own person, who I can rely on and take care of and laugh with and hold.

I’m suddenly tipsy from wanting.