Plus, I’ve been craving the sight of her since the moment she left my apartment. I didn’t know who to thank for my luck when she asked to stay and watch the game with me. During commercial breaks, I got her talking, picking up small facts about her life. Now, I know she works remotely as a website designer, which means she can stick around Pine Falls as long as she has internet access. I paid close attention to every fact she let drop about her brothers. When I meet her family, I want them to like me, so the more I know, the better.

Yeah, that’s presumptuous. But my wolf and I are in full agreement. Zoey Gunner is something special, and missing out on a chance with her would haunt me.

Unfortunately, she only stayed until the end of the game. The past couple of days have been longer than usual at work, meaning I couldn’t figure out a way to casually run into her around town.

But this? It’s more than just trying to set up an accidental meeting. I’m legitimately worried about Zoey getting turned around in the unfamiliar area.

Pine Falls is different from Denver. Wilder.

I would know. I’m one of the monsters that lurks in these woods.

Roderick continues to study me, and I let him. Suddenly, his head tilts, his nose to the wind, and he breathes in deep. I follow his lead, scenting the air. Almost immediately, I catch the familiar hint of sweet earthiness.

But there’s another scent. Another person. Someone who smells like paper and lemons.

Could she be out here with a man?

The thought has my wolf growling, but I stifle the urge before it reaches my throat.

“Juliet is here,” Roderick says, climbing off of his bike.

“Juliet?” The name sounds kind of familiar, but it takes me a second of going through my mental tally of Pine Falls residents to remember. “The librarian?”

A silent nod from Roderick as he stares at the woods.

Interesting.

My first instinct is to tease Roderick about his first-name-basis situation with the cute woman who is also a recent transplant to our small town. But I keep my big mouth shut with some effort, wary of him ordering me to get back on my bike and continue on to Pine Falls.

Being pack leader is more than a title. There’s magic in the designation. I’d have a hard time circumventing his direct order.

Instead, I track the maple trail into the woods and stifle a smile at the sound of my brother following me. He wants to come, but doesn’t want to take point?

Even more interesting.