through the rain streaked glass of her family's diner a flash of movement catches Daisy's eyes a small figure

huddles against the brick wall across the street pressed into the narrow space between the hardware store and the post

office even through the downpour Daisy can make out the thin shoulders of a child maybe 9 or 10 years old with dark

hair plastered to his skull she pauses dish towel forgotten in her hands

daisy dear can I get a refill someone calls out from the back sure thing

Polly she doesn't turn though because through the window the boy is staring directly at

her their eyes meet across the empty street and then as if startled by being seen the child melts back into the

shadows daisy her stepmother's sharp voice makes her jump these tables won't

clean themselves yes ma'am but Daisy's attention keeps drifting to the

window when she looks again the boy has moved to the mouth of the alley beside the diner just standing there in the

rain the bell above the door chimes as Mr henderson the town's retired postal worker hurries in from the downpour his

usually neat appearance is disheveled his eyes wide with something between concern and

alarm evening Mr henderson daisy calls softly already reaching for the coffee

pot rough night to be out there's a boy out there he says

shaking rain from his jacket i tried to ask if he needed help getting home but

he Mr henderson pauses well he snarled at me daisy's hand stills on the coffee

pot snarled like some kind of animal through

the window Daisy see the small figure retreat deeper into the alley's shadows rain continues to pour down turning the

world into a cold gray blur the boy looks so small out there so

alone what are you even doing here on a Saturday night Daisy mr henderson asks

young girl like you should be out with friends i hear all the kids are rushing to see that new Spielberg film Back to

the Present it's Back to the Future Mr henderson daisy smiles not paying him

much attention she can't afford going to the movies she needs to work as many shifts

as she can to pay her future college tuition and most importantly there's a

child alone in the rain she still sees him now hovering

nearby pretty sure it's back to the present mr henderson is arguing you can't go back to the future that doesn't

make sense i'll be right back Mr henderson daisy interrupts before her stepmother can

notice she slips out the back door into the rain it immediately soaks through her uniform but she presses on into the

alley where the boy has retreated he's crouched in the shadows now and when she appears his head snaps

up for a moment she thinks he might bolt his eyes are the strangest color amber

almost golden in the dim light and there's a wildness about them that makes her understand why Mr henderson was

spooked but the boy is young and surely if someone is scared it's him 'hey,' she

calls softly staying several feet away 'you're getting soaked out here.' The boy watches her with the

weary intensity of a cornered animal when she takes a step closer a low sound

rumbles from his throat not quite a growl but close enough to make her

pause 'it's okay,' she whispers she slowly gestures toward the diner's

back door warm light spilling out into the darkness you can come inside if you want

get out of the rain the boy's gaze flicks between her face and the open

doorway i'll leave the door open Daisy says quietly you don't have to be

afraid daisy Marie Miller her stepmother's voice cracks like a whip from inside the diner

the boy flinches and then he bolts chapter

1 the following night Daisy hunches over her calculus textbook at a back booth of

the empty diner the numbers swimming before her tired eyes studying again brenda's voice drips

with mock sympathy as she saunters past purse already slung over her shoulder

god it's like so cute how hard you try daisy doesn't look up going out again

she asks 'Don't you have a shift tonight?' 'Not anymore I don't.' Before

Daisy can respond the kitchen door swings open with a familiar creek her stepmother Julia appears with that tight

smile that never reaches her eyes daisy Brenda needs to leave early

todd is taking her to that new place in the city you'll cover her shift but I have a test tomorrow and the

diner comes first julia cuts her off your father would have wanted it that way the familiar ache blooms in Daisy's

chest at the mention of her dad three years gone and sometimes it feels like yesterday she lost

him 'and besides Daisy,' her sister adds 'you're like naturally meant for this

place.' 'Fine,' Daisy says closing her textbook 'she needs the tips anyway

every dollar brings her one step closer to escape.' Brenda flashes a triumphant smile thanks

sis don't wait up the bell above the door chimes as Brenda leaves and Julia follows her

daughter with her eyes pride evident in her gaze when she turns back to Daisy

that warmth vanishes the ketchup bottles need refilling she says and don't think I

didn't notice you gave Mr henderson a free cup yesterday he's been coming here for 20

years your sentimentality is costing us money julia snaps just like your fathers

did daisy bites her tongue and nods knowing from experience that arguing only makes things

worse by 9:00 only a few customers remain mostly truckers passing through

town daisy's feet ache and calculus formulas still dance in her mind as she

wipes down the counter the bell above the door chimes when Daisy looks up the boy from the

alley stands in the doorway dripping rainwater onto the welcome mat his blonde hair is still plastered

to his head clothes even more ragged in the diner's bright light and his eyes dart around the

room daisy frowns his eyes are a piercing blue she could have sworn they

hadn't been yesterday outside but perhaps a trick of the light for a moment nobody moves then as

if having made some internal decision the boy slides into the farthest booth back to the wall eyes never leaving the

door quickly Daisy grabs a menu and a glass of water as she approaches his

booth the boy's posture changes shoulders squaring chin lifting as if

preparing for a fight 'hi there,' she says softly placing the water before him

'can I get you anything to eat?' The boy stares at her expression

unreadable he doesn't reach for the menu doesn't speak just watches her and there's something in his eyes a

hollowess a distant grief that she recognizes with painful clarity it's the same look she'd seen in

her own reflection in the hospital bathroom mirror after saying goodbye to her mother for the last time

it's the look of a child who has seen what no child should have to see who has lost what no child should have to

lose daisy fights back her tears okay she says shakily just the

water then let me know if you change your mind she turns to leave but a soft sound

makes her pause when she looks back the boy has pulled the glass closer both

hands wrapped around it like it might be taken away throughout her shift Daisy watches

him from the corner of her eye he sits perfectly still sipping water occasionally watching other customers

eat their meals with an intensity that makes her heart ache when a family at a nearby table

laughs over a stack of pancakes something flickers across his face longing maybe quickly masked by that

same proud defiance just before closing the boy slides out of the booth and disappears

into the night without a word she can't shake the image of those hungry eyes watching others eat as she

walks back home just in case she calls the police in a hushed tone from the landline

downstairs praying it doesn't wake Julia or Brenda to ask if there's been any reports of a missing 10-year-old

boy but there isn't who this boy is and what he is doing alone outside at night

remains a mystery chapter 2

the next evening the boy returns the fluorescent lights catch the hollows beneath his cheekbones the sharp angle

of his collarbone visible beneath his threadbear t-shirt at the booth directly across

from him the Martinez family celebrates their daughter's soccer victory with a feast towering burgers dripping with

cheese golden French fries steaming in their basket the boy's nostrils flare

slightly his throat working as he swallows and his knuckles turning white around his water glass

yet when Daisy approaches with a menu offering a gentle smile he merely shakes his head pride keeps his spine straight

his chin lifted even as his eyes betray him by lingering on every plate that

passes when he finally leaves sliding out of the booth with that strange careful grace daisy notices he's left

his waterglass bone dry not a single drop wasted by the third night she can't

stand it anymore daisy watches the boy from behind the counter his gaze fixed on a family

sharing a plate of pancakes syrup glistening under the diner lights his eyes track every bite with

painful intensity though his face remains carefully blank the hollow of his throat works as

he swallows repeatedly making a decision Daisy pulls a ticket pad from her apron and

scribbles an order she walks to the kitchen window and clips it to the carousel

short stack with bacon for table 7 she says quietly to Chuck the cook glances

over his shoulder then back to Daisy with a raised eyebrow kid ordering now no Daisy says fishing three crumpled

bills from her tip pocket this one's on me chuck's weathered face softens he

waves away the money put it back in your college fund kid this one's on the house

chuck I can't let you your dad would have done the same he says gruffly

already turning to the grill when the bell rings minutes later Daisy takes a deep breath before lifting

the plate the pancakes are golden brown a perfect p of butter melting on top three

strips of bacon arranged on the side more food than she'd seen the boy eat in the three days she'd known

him she carries it to his table heartpounding here you go she says

setting the plate before him the boy stares at the food then at her suspicion

sharpening his features kitchen mistake Daisy says understanding washing over her we were

going to throw these out but it seems like such a waste would you mind something shifts in his expression

as his gaze drops to the pancakes then back to her face as if searching for the

trap daisy doesn't push she simply places a fork and knife beside the plate

wraps a napkin around them and steps back 'enjoy,' she says and walks away to

give him privacy from across the diner she watches as he carefully almost

reverently cuts into the pancakes the first bite seems to surprise him his blue eyes widen

slightly and for just a moment he looks like what he is a hungry child tasting

something sweet he eats methodically savoring each bite occasionally darting glances around as

if expecting someone to take the food away when he finishes he wipes his mouth

with the napkin and sits very still hands folded on the table before he leaves something

unexpected happens he looks directly at Daisy and gives her the slightest nod barely perceptible but unmistakably an

acknowledgement the next evening he's back this time

when Daisy approaches with water the tension in his shoulders seems less pronounced 'kitchen mistake,' she says

placing a bowl of oatmeal with brown sugar and a side of toast before him 'such a shame to waste

food.' And so it begins each evening Daisy orders a

different meal paying from her tip jar and presents it as a fortunate accident eggs and bacon one night a

hamburger the next soup the following evening her college fund grows a little

more slowly but she can't bring herself to care a week into their strange ritual

during a quiet moment when the diner is nearly empty Daisy slides into the booth across from him the boy stiffens

immediately but doesn't bolt 'so,' she says conversationally as

if they do this all the time 'do you have a name?' The boy watches her something

complicated happening behind those amber eyes his lips part slightly as if he

wants to speak but no sound emerges 'you don't have to tell me,'

Daisy says quickly 'i just thought 'Well I could guess.' The tension in his shoulders

eases slightly 'let's see.' Daisy taps her chin thoughtfully 'you look like a

Bartholomew.' The boy's eyes widen and his nose wrinkles in obvious

disgust daisy bites back a smile no okay how about

Angelbert the look of absolute horror on his face makes her laugh out loud all right definitely not Angelbert

hm percal with each increasingly ridiculous name the boy's expression grows more

appalled until finally the corner of his mouth twitches upwards

i'll figure it out eventually Daisy promises standing up as a new customer enters as she walks away she catches a

glimpse of something that might be amusement in his eyes two weeks into their strange ritual

the boy is waiting at his usual booth when Daisy arrives for her shift tonight before she can launch into her name

guessing game he slides a folded napkin across the table puzzled Daisy opens it written in

careful childish letters is a single word oliver oliver she says softly testing

the name the boy nods once solemn daisy smiles feeling as though she's been

given something precious i'm Daisy what she doesn't know

can't possibly know is that across the street hidden in shadows a tall figure

watches the diner watches the boy watches her kindness unfold night after night and

waits chapter 3 tonight the diner is nearly empty

thunder rumbles in the distance and the fluorescent lights flicker momentarily daisy glances at the clock

15 minutes until closing i'll take out the trash she calls to Chuck gathering the heavy bags

from behind the counter be careful out there he replies storm's getting

worse daisy pushes through the back door into the alley and hurries to the dumpster when movement at the mouth of

the alley catches her eye oliver stands on the sidewalk his thin shoulders hunched against the rain

but he's not alone a tall man looms over him broad- shouldered and imposing even through the

curtain of rain his face is shadowed but there's something predatory in his stance he grips Oliver's arm saying

something Daisy can't hear over the storm when Oliver pulls back shaking his

head violently the man tightens his grip daisy rushes forward 'hey,' she calls

'let him go.' The man's head snaps up and for an instant Daisy could swear his

eyes flash gold in the dim light he yanks Oliver roughly pulling him into the shadows between buildings

daisy hesitates for only a second before following after them she rounds the corner into a narrow

service alley darker than the main street and shielded somewhat from the rain by overhanging fire

escapes the man has Oliver backed against a brick wall looming over him

control yourself he growls his voice low and commanding you feel it building

don't you the storm does that you need to master it or it will master you oliver's body is rigid his

breathing rapid oliver Daisy calls her voice shaking are you

okay the man whirls to face her and this time there's no mistaking it his eyes gleam gold in the darkness inhuman and

predatory this doesn't concern you he says

leave daisy clenches her fists let him go she snaps or I'm calling the

police behind the man Oliver makes a strangled sound part growl part whimper

daisy's eyes widen as she watches his small frame begin to convulse his face contorting in what looks like

pain oliver she exclaims taking a step forward the man curses now you've done

it his control was already slipping oliver drops to his hands and knees his body shuddering violently and

in the dim light of the alley Daisy watches in horror and disbelief as his form begins to

change his body contorts dark sleek fur ripples across his skin his face

elongates ears shifting upward to points and then where the boy had been a wolf

pup stands small but unmistakable with the same amber eyes that have watched

her across the diner for weeks daisy stumbles backward her back

hitting the opposite wall of the narrow alley this can't be real it can't be

happening the pup whines taking a hesitant step toward her oliver stay the man commands and the

pup freezes daisy opens her mouth but no words come out and

then 'Daisy!' A sharp voice cuts through the rain 'daisy Miller where are

you?' Julia's voice coming from the direction of the diner the man's head snaps toward the

sound then back to Daisy 'go,' the man says to her 'act normal.' Dazed Daisy stumbles back

toward the diner emerging from the alley just as Julia rounds the corner an umbrella clutched in her manicured

hand 'there you are what are you doing out in this weather?' 'I I thought I saw

something,' Daisy manages her voice faint 'a cat maybe?' Julia rolls her eyes always

wasting time on strays 'get inside before you catch pneumonia i need to speak with you.' Daisy follows her stepmother back

into the diner her mind reeling a wolf oliver transformed into a wolf such

things don't happen can't happen yet she saw it with her own eyes inside Chuck has already left

through the front door leaving them alone in the fluorescent lit diner julia marches straight to the

counter where Daisy's tip jar sits this is what I wanted to discuss

Julia says lifting the jar bills and coins collected over weeks of shifts catch the light daisy's college fund

growing scent by scent your sister tells me you've been feeding that boy who comes in for

free i Daisy begins but Julia cuts her off don't bother denying it chuck

confirmed it she dumps the contents of the jar onto the counter with a harsh clatter of

coins do you have any idea how disappointed your father would be this money was for your future

daisy stares at the scattered tips weeks of smiling through exhaustion of aching feet and late night studying after

closing 'dad left me money for college,' she says quietly 'he promised there

would Julia's laugh is brittle.' 'Daisy your father left barely enough to

cover food for 6 months let alone years of college tuition this She gestures to the money on the

counter this is what you have to rely on and you've been wasting it on some stray

boy but the inheritance was mostly debt Daisy julia size and with Todd's tuition

going up this semester there's nothing left for you but your own tips the reality sinks in like a stone

no inheritance no college fund beyond what she can save herself the bell above

the door chimes and Daisy's heart jumps into her throat oliver human again looking small and

damp steps into the diner dressed in an oversized coat behind him the tall man follows his

presence filling the space like a storm cloud we're closed Julia says

sharply the man ignores her walking straight to Daisy up close he's even

more intimidating over 6t tall with the same amber eyes as Oliver and a scar

running along his jawline my nephew and I would like a word with Miss Miller he says julia draws herself

up as I said we're closed and Daisy is busy the man reaches into his jacket and

pulls out a wallet he extracts several large bills and places them on the counter for your trouble we won't be

long julia hesitates eyeing the money with a huff she snatches it

up 5 minutes she shoots Daisy a warning look before disappearing through the swinging

door as soon as Julia's gone Oliver rushes to Daisy's side 'are you okay?'

Daisy asks him softly oliver nods then glances back at the man with unmistakable

weariness 'i'm Nicholas Gray,' the man says his voice cold and precise

oliver's uncle 'what?' Daisy struggles to form the question 'what happened out there in the

alley nothing happened Nicholas says his golden eyes boring into hers nothing at

all but I saw what you think you saw in a dimly lit alley during a storm he cuts

her off doesn't matter much oliver's face hardens he steps

slightly in front of Daisy as if shielding her from his uncle you saw nothing nicholas continues

turning back to Daisy and even if you thought you did who would believe you daisy feels a chill run down her spine

despite the diner's warmth i just saw you dragging a child into an alley she says her voice

steadier than she feels that's concerning enough nicholas studies her for a moment

then changes tactics i'm Oliver's legal guardian now that his parents are gone

he explains and he will be coming with me he belongs with his family

he reaches into his jacket and pulls out a checkbook now about what you saw or

rather didn't see he writes rapidly tears out a check and slides it across

the counter this should help your college situation daisy glances down and nearly

gasps the amount is more than she could save in 5 years of tips her eyes find

Oliver's 'i don't want your money,' she tells his uncle pushing the check back across the counter

don't be foolish Nicholas says this could solve your problems daisy looks at

the check again for a moment temptation flickers through her but then she meets Oliver's gaze

sees the trust and admiration in his eyes and knows she can't take it 'what I did for Oliver wasn't a

transaction,' she says firmly 'it was the right thing to do i won't take payment for

that.' Nicholas jaw tightens this is absurd he mutters take the money

kid get yourself out of here no Daisy says simply pushing the

check firmly back toward him this isn't worth a few fries and milkshakes which is all I gave

Oliver a small hand reaches for hers and Daisy squeezes it lightly as Oliver's uncle pockets the check with a shake of

his head you're either the most principled or the most foolish human I've ever met

he says perhaps both oliver's small jaw sets stubbornly

he moves closer to Daisy as if seeking protection 'your uncle is right,' Daisy

says softly kneeling to meet his eyes 'you should be with your

family.' Oliver's pouts he gestures around the diner then points to her 'i

know,' she whispers 'i'll miss you too but this isn't where you belong.'

Oliver's expression crumples he reaches for her hand holds it in both of his smaller

ones he will write to you Nicholas says unexpectedly oliver turns back to Daisy

his expression earnest questioning i'd like that Daisy says her

own eyes stinging with unshed tears for the first time since she's known him Oliver's face breaks into a true smile

small but real then without warning he throws his arms around her

neck 'it's time,' Nicholas says quietly oliver pulls away reluctantly he steps

back to his uncle's side but his eyes remain fixed on Daisy 'remember,' the man says his voice

low and serious 'nothing happened in that alley nothing unusual ever.' His golden eyes hold hers for a

moment longer a final warning then he places a hand on Oliver's shoulder and

guides him toward the door a week later an envelope arrives at the diner addressed to her in careful childish

handwriting inside is a letter short but precious dear Daisy I am with my uncle

now they are teaching me many things i miss your pancakes i miss you more daisy

traces her fingers over the signature surprised by the sudden ache in her chest

chapter 4 april 1986 dear

Oliver thank you so much for your letter i can't tell you how relieved I was to hear from you i've been wondering where

you were and if you were safe is your uncle treating you well your friend

Daisy june 1986 dear Daisy sorry it took so long to

write back i'm with the pack now uncle says I need to train that it's my duty but he's full of don't tell him I

said that word i miss you in your scent is your aunt still being mean to you

oliver July 1986 dear Oliver I'm so happy to hear

you're safe what do you mean by training do you practice changing is that the

right word to use is the pack your family julia is not

my aunt she's my stepmother your friend Daisy p.s your secret bad word is safe

with me september 1986 dear

Daisy yes I am training to control my change but I shouldn't tell you about that stuff i think Uncle checks my

letters before they go out he told me I shouldn't comment on a lady's scent like I did but how else was I supposed to say

I miss how you smell adults are confusing i can't believe Julia is your mother

she's so mean to you my mother wasn't like that at all when I'm older and you're my mate no one will ever be mean

to you ever again i promise oliver october 1986 dear Oliver I don't mind you

commenting on my scent i wear vanilla perfume sometimes maybe that's what you remember about the mate thing though i'm

very flattered but you're too young to be thinking about those things julia isn't my real mother by the way she's my

stepmother my real mother is in heaven she got very sick when I was 12 and there was nothing the doctors could

do so I understand missing your mother i miss mine every day especially when I

make her recipes at the diner december 1986 dear Daisy I don't care what my

uncle thinks or says you will be my mate one day when I grow up he tried to make

your pancakes he burned the edges but I ate them anyway he's not so bad i

dreamed of the night my parents died 2 days ago and uncle had to sit with me until morning i didn't cry though uncle

says alphas have to be strong and I'm meant to become alpha oliver February

1987 dear Oliver it's okay to cry you know when my mom died I cried a lot when

my dad died too you're only 11 you don't have to be strong all the time daisy PS

what's an alpha september 1988 daisy did you get your acceptance letter

yet fingers crossed but they'd be fools not to accept you you're brilliant love

Oliver october 1988 olly I got in classes start in

January i'm so excited i can hardly sleep i don't have enough saved for full-time

study yet but the bank is giving me a small loan to help

daisy April 1990 dear Daisy how did your finals go

this semester are you still studying business there's a new girl here named

Maya uncle thinks I should be friends with her but I don't want to love Oliver

may 1990 hey Olly finals went well thank you

i managed all A's and one B+ in statistics david helped me study for that one he's much better with numbers

than I am how are things with Maya sometimes new friendships can surprise you

daisy june 1990 who's David you never mentioned him

before maya asks too many questions about my parents love Oliver july

1990 happy birthday Olly did you get my surprise i sent it directly to your

uncle about Maya sometimes the people who annoy us most end up becoming important to us maybe give her a

chance your friend Daisy August 1990 you didn't answer my question who

is David september 1990 hi Olly if you

must know David is my boyfriend we met in my accounting class last semester how is your training going daisy

November 1990 dear Ali is everything okay you haven't answered my last letter

yet i guess you must be busy the leaves are changing here and it reminds me of the autumn when we first met hard to

believe that was 5 years ago your friend Daisy December

1990 olly it's been 4 months since I received a proper letter from you has

something happened daisy january

1991 dear Oliver did I do something wrong are you upset with me i miss your

letters your friend Daisy march 1991 daisy you must know how I feel

about you you've always known how could you let me know you're somebody else's and not expect it to tear me up inside i

don't want your letters if you're going to be with someone else march 1991

olly is that why you haven't been writing because of David you're only 15

what you're feeling is a crush something you will grow out of nothing more you matter to me Olly when you

didn't write for months it hurt me please don't do that again

daisy May 1991 dear Oliver I understand if you don't want to be friends

daisy November 1991 my Daisy I'm sorry i didn't mean it

when I said I didn't want your letters i tried to forget you but I miss you too

much i'd rather be your friend than nothing to you at all you're too important to me your

scent has been fading from your last letter and I miss it i miss you forgive

me december 1991 oliver you don't have to send me a new

gift every day until Christmas it's too much i miss you too i hope you enjoy

these gingerbread cookies i made them myself you're Daisy april

1993 olly I quit that terrible job you would have been proud of

me i finally stood up to that jerk of a boss when he tried to make me close alone again the look on his face was

priceless david took me to meet his parents last weekend it's getting pretty serious

you're Daisy may 1993 daisy I'm not sure I like the idea

of you meeting his parents you barely know him maya says I should be happy for you

i'm trying but the wolf doesn't like it oliver June 1993

dear Olly David and I have been dating for about 3 years now that's not nothing

you're creating a connection in your mind that isn't real at least not in the way you seem to think it is you're 16

now and I'm 22 you're still so young and you have your whole life ahead of you

speaking of which you mention Maya often is there something developing there you're

Daisy november 1993 daisy maya's from an important

family within the pack uncle has suggested we would make a good match the wolf isn't opposed to the idea

she smells right if that makes sense we're considering a formal courtship bond love

Oliver december 1993 dear Oliver a formal courtship bond

at 16 oliver that sounds so serious and permanent you're just a teenager you

should be meeting different people figuring out who you are before you commit to something so binding and what

does she smells right even mean that's not a foundation for a lifelong relationship

daisy March 1994 dear Olly David proposed last night

i said yes i'm not sure why I'm nervous telling you this you're my best friend

you should be the first to know the wedding will be next summer i hope you can be there but I understand why that

might be complicated how are things with Maya you're Daisy may

1994 daisy congratulations on your engagement i've been busy with pack matters uncle

has been delegating more responsibilities to me as preparation for when I become alpha maya and I have

formalized our courtship bond it's the first step toward a permanent mating uncle is pleased with the alliance our

bloodlines are compatible our wolves accept each other it's enough though I dream of you still Oliver june

1994 olly I'm concerned about you this formal courtship sounds so wrong to me

our bloodlines are compatible our wolves accept each other where is the joy the

passion the excitement you're 17 Oliver this isn't

the Middle Ages you don't need to make political alliances through marriage i'm sorry if this sounds harsh but I

just want you to be happy you're Daisy august

1994 daisy what would you have me do pine forever for a human woman who's marrying

another man the wolf may be stubborn but even it understands when a chase is futile i'm learning to live with the

knowledge that you'll never be mine october 1994 dear Ali the wedding is set for June

15th next year save the date even if you can't be there in person i'll be thinking of

you please don't speak of pining for me i only want you to find someone who lights a fire in your soul not someone

who merely smells right or has the correct bloodline you're

Daisy december 1994 daisy you still don't understand what

the wolf feels for you isn't something I chose or can simply dismiss it's primal

instinctual bone deep when you fed that starving pup

something fundamental shifted the wolf recognized something in you strength compassion a kindred

spirit it doesn't understand weddings or age differences or the boundaries of friendship

i've enclosed a small Christmas gift it's a silver pendant with our pack symbol wearing it would mark you as

under our protection the wolf will rest easier knowing you have it love Oliver

february 1995 dear Oliver the pendant is

beautiful i haven't taken it off since I received it wedding planning continues

to be a nightmare i've compromised on the guest count but I put my foot down about the location you're Daisy april

1995 daisy you speak of passion and joy as if they're birthrights for some of us

duty comes first always and yet I know

how you dot your eyes with little circles when you're happy how your letters slant more when you're writing

in a hurry how you press harder with the pen when you're angry or passionate about

something the day your wedding invitation arrived I ran for hours through the forest until my paws bled

and my lungs burned still I couldn't outrun the truth you're choosing him not

me i won't attend i can't the wolf wouldn't allow it love

Oliver june 1995 dear Oliver your last letter

troubled me deeply i understand why you can't attend the wedding i do but part

of me will be looking for you anyway your Daisy december

1995 my Daisy i can't do this anymore for years I've tried to be your friend

to respect your choices to cage a beast that lives only for you but with each step you take toward a

life with him something in me fractures i keep your letters in a

wooden box under my bed sometimes when I can't sleep I reread them all in order 10 years of Daisy

Miller i know every word every crease in the paper every place where your pen

pressed harder on the page the truth is I have loved you since

I was 10 years old the boy loved your kindness the teenager loved your wisdom

the man loves all that you are your strength your compassion your quiet

determination but you've chosen your path and it doesn't include me so I release you i set free this

impossible beautiful agonizing connection that has defined me for so long i free the wolf to find another if

such a thing is even possible be happy Daisy live the life

you've chosen with your whole heart i won't write again it's the only

way I can survive always and forever yours

Oliver june 1999 olly I know I shouldn't be writing to you but tonight sitting

alone in my apartment I needed to put these words somewhere i miss

you 3 years of silence and I still find myself checking the mail with a flutter of hope when I get

home i didn't get married Oliver david had been cheating on me with Brenda of

all people my stepsister they'd been seeing each other for months

apparently everyone knew but me i'm okay now mostly i pick up weekend

shifts at the diner sometimes just to make extra payments that student loan you know sometimes I touch the pendant you

gave me and wonder where you are and if you're happy with Maya i hope you know that somewhere a waitress who once fed

the hungry child you were still thinks of you i'll never send this letter but writing it has helped always yours

Daisy chapter 5 three years later Daisy bursts into

the hotel's locker room out of breath and flushed where have you been lisa appears

in the doorway arms crossed it started almost an hour ago and the wedding planner's a royal pain in the She stops

eyeing Daisy what's wrong nothing Daisy mutters

fumbling with the buttons of her uniform lisa raises an eyebrow sounds like

something daisy's hand still for a moment she's done it she sigh the

diner's up for sale what lisa's eyes widen your wicked

stepmother i swear can't you sue take this to court daisy shrugs straightening her

blazer my father left it to her she's allowed to sell it the thought of the sign bearing her

mother's name being taken down of all the photos of her parents being thrown away makes her throat

tighten 'couldn't you buy it?' Lisa asks as they hurry out of the locker room

'with what money?' Daisy scoffs 'with my student loans I haven't had the chance to save much of

anything.' They emerge into the reception area where a woman with severe glasses is justiculating wildly pointing

people in different directions that must be joy then Daisy asks only

the wedding planner to the most important wedding of the century Lisa confirms daisy approaches the woman

professional smile in place miss Harrington I'm Daisy Miller the restaurant manager how can I be of

service you could have been of service an hour ago Miss Miller joy snaps

the grand ballroom has been transformed for the welcome dinner an event the size of a conference dozens of round tables

draped in cream linens fill the space each adorned with elaborate floral arrangements weight staff in crisp

uniforms weave between glamorously dressed guests the luxury hotel has been fully privatized for the week-long

celebration culminating in the wedding this weekend as restaurant manager Daisy has nothing

to do with the wedding preparations but she's responsible for ensuring the welcome dinner runs smoothly she's

determined to make up for her tardiness i apologize for the delay

Daisy says smoothly i assure you everything is under control her eyes drift to the bar where

a man stands waiting for a drink she freezes mid-sentence tall and broad-shouldered

with golden hair that catches the light like spun gold his profile is sculpted

perfection strong jawline straight nose full lips curved in a slight smile as he

speaks to the bartender his suit clearly custommade accentuates his athletic

build in a way that makes her mouth go dry quite simply he's the most beautiful

man she's ever seen as if sensing her gaze he turns piercing blue eyes find hers across the room and

her breath catches in her throat for a moment she forgets where she is what she's

doing then he quirks an eyebrow and she looks away abruptly heart pounding

ridiculously fast 'are you listening Miss Miller?' Joy demands 'the bar service is entirely

too slow guests have been waiting over 10 minutes for drinks i'll handle it personally Daisy assures

her grateful for the excuse to escape though going to the bar means getting closer to him she slips behind the bar

though it's not technically her job the bartenders are clearly overwhelmed by the demanding crowd as she begins mixing

drinks she's acutely aware of his presence just feet away she tries not to

look directly at him but can't help stealing glances from beneath her lashes

ridiculous she's a grown woman not some tongue-tied teenager and yet her hands

aren't quite steady as she pours vodka into a martini glass 'can I get you anything sir?' she

finally asks him proud that her voice sounds normal despite the flutter in her stomach he studies her for a long moment

those blue eyes seeming to see right through her professional facade then he smiles a slow confident curve of

his lips that makes her pulse skitter yes actually his voice is deep and rich with

a hint of something wild beneath the cultured tones daisy swallows trying to ignore how it affects

her 'well do let me know what you'd like i thought it would be obvious by now,'

he says leaning slightly closer across the bar heat creeps up Daisy's neck is he

flirting with her surely not men who look like him don't flirt with women like

her i'm sorry i'm not sure what you mean he raises an eyebrow amusement dancing

in his eyes well a hug would be nice for one bewildering moment Daisy imagines

being wrapped in those strong arms pressed against that broad chest the thought is so unexpected so

inappropriate that she nearly drops the glass she's holding i'm I'm sorry the

man stares at her then snorts softly you don't recognize me do you Daisy panic flutters in her chest she's

certain she'd remember meeting someone like him how does he know her name oh I'm sorry yes of course she

stammers not wanting to offend what must be an important guest of course he tilts

his head so you remember me daisy opens her mouth closes it again

she feels foolish caught in a lie but there's no way she's ever met this man before she would remember

definitely right good his smile widens showing perfect white teeth well you

should come say hello to my uncle you know he asked about you just the other day all right she agrees weakly having

no idea what else to say she's almost certain he's confusing her with someone else but there's no graceful way to say

so he gestures for her to follow and she finds herself trailing behind him across the ballroom guests part for him nodding

respectfully as he passes he moves with the easy confidence of someone accustomed to difference

she can't help noticing the way other women watch him as he passes with the same appreciation she felt earlier but

also with something like recognition he's someone important clearly he leads her to a tall man in

his late 40s with salt and pepper hair and a stern expression meeting the older man's gaze

Daisy feels a jolt of recognition she's seen him before nick you remember Daisy the

blonde man asks the older man Nick narrows his eyes at her 'what is she

doing here?' he snaps making Daisy want to take a cautious step back 'i don't

know.' The blonde shrugs 'i had nothing to do with it.' He turns to Daisy with

that charming smile 'what are you doing here Daisy?' The older man crosses his

arms expectantly while the younger one looks like he wants to laugh put on the spot she straightens her

shoulders i'm the restaurant manager she attempts cautiously there you go the blonde says

to Nick she's the restaurant manager you really expect me to believe that out of all the hotels in the

city he's interrupted by the arrival of a stunning brunette in a sparkling black dress who slides her arm through the

blonde man's olly she scolds gently where have you been robin's asking for you the

world tilts sideways olly she just called him Olly ah Maya the blonde smiles this is Daisy

you remember I've told you about Daisy haven't I daisy stares at the man before

her seeing him properly for the first time the golden hair the piercing blue

eyes the tall powerful frame that bears no resemblance to the skinny boy she once knew and

yet Oliver this is Oliver the boy she fed pancakes to the teenager who wrote her

passionate letters the young man who broke her heart with his final goodbye and who's now looking at her

like she's merely an amusing diversion not the shock he clearly is to her his uncle Nicholas she remembers now looks

like he swallowed something sour and Maya like a supermodel princess in her designer dress while Daisy stands there

in her simple uniform still sweaty from rushing her hair hastily pulled back 'excuse me,' she manages her voice

barely audible she turns and flees threading through the crowd with her head down ignoring Lisa's questioning

look as she passes she doesn't stop until she reaches the locker room empty now where

she sinks onto a bench and presses her hands to her burning cheeks oliver here now a tall handsome man in

an expensive suit that probably costs more than her monthly rent and she'd been staring at him finding him

attractive without even recognizing him he must think she's an idiot and she's

behaving like a child running away instead of doing her job she buries her face in her hands trying to steady her

breathing the locker room door caks open daisy doesn't look up assuming it's Lisa

coming to check on her oh come on Daisy you didn't have to run away daisy's head snaps up oliver stands

in the doorway leaning against the frame with casual elegance a hint of a smile playing on his lips like he finds her

reaction entertaining 'this is the women's locker room,' she

manages his smile fades instantly 'you're crying,' he murmurs the teasing

tone replaced by genuine concern he crosses the room in two long strides

and kneels before her bringing those piercing blue eyes level with hers 'it's not because of me is it?' he

asks uncertainty softening his voice daisy lowers her gaze unable to

articulate the storm of emotions coursing through her 'how can she explain that she's crying because the

starving boy she once fed has become this magnificent man?'

because part of her mourns the connection they once shared now seemingly replaced by this vast unbridgegable

distance oliver reaches out his thumb gently brushing a tear from her cheek

the simple touch sends a jolt through her system 'i'm sorry my Daisy,' he murmurs

'i didn't mean to upset you.' 'My Daisy.' The possessive endearment spoken

in that deep voice makes her shiver her eyes snap to his and something

electric passes between them i'm just so happy to see you she whispers surprised

by the raw honesty in her voice oliver smiles not the polished

confident smile he wore in the ballroom but something softer more genuine something that reminds her of

the boy who once wrote her heartfelt letters she hates herself for the way her breath catches a sharp knock on the

door breaks the moment daisy are you in there lisa calls joyy's looking for you

something about the champagne toast schedule daisy jumps to her feet smoothing her uniform i should

go before she can move past him Oliver captures her hand in his his palm is

warm his grip gentle but firm have dinner with me tomorrow night

the request throws her for one wild moment she imagines them at a candle lit

table his eyes on hers across fine china and crystal what he squeezes her hand his

thumb tracing small circles on her skin we should catch up 15 years is a

long time what about Maya the question slips out before she can stop it oliver's

brow furrows what about her oh no i just meant Daisy falters feeling

foolish maya is my beta not my mate in the end we didn't go through with the

mating ceremony his voice drops lower there's a lot you don't know Daisy a lot

that's happened since my last letter heat rushes to her cheeks at the

memory say yes he urges his eyes never leaving hers yes she breathes okay he releases

her hand though his fingers trail along hers for a moment longer than necessary i should get back i have a

speech to make they return to the ballroom separately daisy slips back into

professional mode overseeing the weight staff ensuring glasses stay filled but

her eyes keep drifting to Oliver as he moves through the crowd commanding attention without

effort stop it she scolds herself this is Oliver he's just a boy

except the boy is gone replaced by a man who makes her pulse race with a single

glance a tinkling of glass interrupts her thoughts the room quiets as Oliver takes

position at the center of the ballroom champagne flute in hand 'ladies and gentlemen,' he begins his voice carrying

effortlessly through the space 'thank you all for joining us this evening.'

Oliver extends his hand and a slender woman with auburn hair and aristocratic features steps forward 'my fiance and

I,' Oliver announces his arm sliding around her waist 'are very happy you

could make it.' The room erupts in applause as Daisy stands frozen champagne bottle still in

hand oliver is getting married oliver is the groom and she just agreed to have

dinner with him tomorrow night chapter 6 on Daisy's last shift at the diner

only two customers remain she wipes down the counter for the third time her thoughts are a jumbled

mess she could have been having dinner with Oliver right now but last night

after learning he was getting married she'd fled home and found herself rereading all of his

letters blushing at his declarations of love at him calling her his mate while imagining the man he'd become whispering

these very words her shameful thoughts juxtaposed with the image of him standing beside

his beautiful fianceé had been too much so instead she's here working her

shift at her father's diner soon to be someone else's diner julia had finalized the sale paperwork

this morning she can't bear to sit across from him pretending to be just an old friend while her heart tried to

reconcile the boy she'd known with the powerful man he'd become the door chimes behind Daisy's

last clients and she's left alone in the empty diner except she isn't not exactly

because right outside stands a tall figure on the sidewalk rain plastering his golden hair to his head soaking

through what appears to be a very expensive suit oliver's eyes meet hers through the

glass just as they did that first night when he'd been a boy but this time

there's no weariness in his gaze only intensity and

hurt one moment Daisy can't move the next she's crossing the diner unlocking the door

you didn't show Oliver says rain dripping from his jaw he's so beautiful it hurts to look

at him come here she manages you're soaked water pools at his feet as he

stands there looking out of place among the worn vinyl booths and chipped for mica

tables your booth is still free she says gesturing to the corner where he used to

sit it's a weak attempt at humor but the corner of his mouth quirks upward

nonetheless daisy brings him coffee without asking setting it before him in a thick white

mug why didn't you come oliver asks something came up she lies not meeting

his eyes you're lying he says not unkindly

your heart rate changes when you lie heat creeps up her neck of course he's a

wolf she forgets sometimes what he is 'i'm sorry,' she blurts out more

genuinely this time 'but you're getting married.' One golden eyebrow

rises and Oliver draws daisy stares at him confused for a moment before she

realizes her mistake he just wanted to have dinner with an old friend and meanwhile

she shame washes over her she's been making it weird reading too much into

his invitation because of her new very inappropriate attraction to him meanwhile of course Oliver wouldn't

be pursuing her now that he's grown and engaged 'i'm sorry,' she says again

meaning it 'wait here.' She retreats to the kitchen leaning against the cool stainless steel

counter for a moment to collect herself then she pulls out flour eggs

buttermilk when she returns to the dining area Oliver's eyes widen slightly 'kitchen mistake,' she whispers

sliding the plate of blueberry pancakes in front of him his answering smile is dazzling 'it does all kind of things to

Daisy's poor heart though not nearly as much as the expression of pure bliss that crosses

his features after he takes his first bite eyes closing briefly

good daisy nearly chokes throat tight she should go back to wiping down tables

finish closing up instead she slides into the booth across from him 'i missed you,' Oliver admits

quietly after the letters stopped he pushes the plate slightly

toward her an invitation 'the simple act of sharing food with him again after so

many years feels strangely intimate tell me about your life my

daisy and somehow she does and as she speaks the years between them seem to

melt away he listens with the same intensity he always had asking questions that show

he remembers every detail she ever shared in her letters 'and now the diner's being

sold,' she finishes gesturing around them 'this is probably one of my last shifts

here.' Oliver's expression darkens why is your stepmother selling

it she says it's been losing money for years maybe she's right but it's the

last piece of your parents you have left oliver observes making Daisy side yeah I

know my mother's name is still on the sign my father's recipes are still in the kitchen oliver reaches across the table

his fingers brushing against hers i'm sorry Daisy somehow during

their conversation they've shifted closer and now her knee presses against his under the

table you never told me what happened to your parents she says softly for a second Oliver's eyes shine

gold they were killed he says calmly in front of me the calm almost detached way

he says this makes Daisy recoil oliver she murmurs tears welling

in her eyes arrival pack he explains his voice steady but distant they wanted our

territory i was hiding in a closet i saw everything daisy reaches for his hand

without thinking squeezing it tight that's why I couldn't speak when we

met oliver's jaw tightens the words were trapped inside me but writing to

you it helped he confesses his thumb tracing circles on her

palm having someone who didn't try to force me to talk it helped more than you know

Daisy you were so thin she remembers so quiet you were in shock i was feral

oliver corrects my wolf took over completely it didn't trust anyone didn't want to be found but

you his eyes meet hers soft with memory you made me feel

safe the distance between them has somehow disappeared they're sitting side by side now their shoulders touching

heads bent close together 'you kept the pendant,' Oliver

murmurs his fingers brushing against the silver wolf emblem 'then they brush against the skin

of her throat.' 'And 'I never take it off,' Daisy admits meeting his gaze

shily oliver's gaze drops to her lips then back to her eyes a silent question

until the question answers itself the first brush of his lips against hers

is achingly gentle a whisper of contact that nonetheless sends heat coursing

through her veins his hand comes up to cradle her face thumb stroking along her

cheekbone 'daisy,' he breathes against her mouth and then something breaks

between them his hands tangle in her hair pulling it free from its bun hers

grip his shoulders feeling the strength coiled beneath expensive fabric

somehow she's in his lap and his kisses grow deeper more demanding one large hand slides beneath

her uniform shirt slaying against the small of her back skin to skin heat

pools low in her belly desire making her tremble reality crashes back with brutal

force oliver is engaged getting married in days we can't she gasps pulling away

oliver we can't his eyes are amber now glowing with barely contained need for a

moment she thinks he might argue might pull her back to him then the gold fades

back to blue and he releases her i'm sorry he says his voice rough i

shouldn't have no I Daisy stands straightening her uniform with shaking hands it was me too

an awkward silence falls between them the easy connection of moments ago replaced by tension and

regret oliver rises towering over her in the small space i should

go daisy nods not trusting herself to speak he moves toward the door then

pauses looking back at her with an expression she can't quite read goodbye Daisy the finality in his

tone makes her heart clench chapter 7 three days since the kiss

three days of replaying the moment in her mind the heat of his mouth the strength of his arms and 3 days of

silence daisy moves through her shift at the hotel on autopilot smiling professionally at guests while her

thoughts remain firmly anchored in a small diner on a rainy night someone clears their throat behind her

daisy turns from the reservation desk to find none other than Maya standing before her elegant as ever in a tailored

pants suit her dark hair swept back in a sleek ponytail something in her expression

cool assessment mixed with reluctance makes Daisy straighten her shoulders defensively 'hello,' she says aiming for

polite 'is there anything I can help you with?' 'Not really no.' Maya extends a

thick cream envelope but I have something for you from Oliver daisy's heart lurches at his name

she takes the envelope with slightly trembling fingers unable to stop herself from asking he didn't want to come see me

himself a flash of irritation crosses Mia's face no the single word stings

more than it should daisy lets her hand drop the envelope unopened

maya size her expression softening marginally it's not that he didn't want

to he thought you would prefer the distance after a moment's hesitation

Daisy opens the envelope inside are several documents legal papers with

official stamps and signatures as she scans the text her breath

catches she's holding the deed to Mary's Diner and it's in her name

i don't understand she whispers tears welling her eyes it's not that complicated Maya snap

he bought it for you daisy stares at the document throat tight her parents' diner

the last connection to them she has now hers again deeper in the envelope she finds

an invitation beneath it a handwritten note in Oliver's familiar script i'd be

honored if you would attend i understand if you can't will you come maya asks watching her

closely daisy swallows audibly i don't I don't think so she

murmurs i don't know you can't make time for the man who just bought your diner back maya's voice

sharpens you don't understand Daisy attempts but Maya won't hear it i

understand more than you know her fingers tighten around her purse strap knuckles

whitening her gaze drifts to the pendant still hanging around Daisy's neck and something like resignation flickers

across her face 'he doesn't love her,' she mutters daisy's brows shoot up

'what?' Robin he doesn't love her maya's gaze is direct challenging

just thought you should know daisy shakes her head he doesn't love me

either she protests overwhelmed he just thinks he does because I was there when

he needed it something dangerous flashes in Maya's eyes a reminder of what lies beneath her

polished exterior if after all these years you still think that she finally says then

you don't deserve him without another word she turns and walks away the sharp click of her heels

against marble echoing in the sudden silence chapter

8 the Grey Pack estate spraws across acres of pristine woodland the ceremony

site nestled in a clearing surrounded by ancient oaks white chairs fan out in neat rows

flower- draped archways creating a path to a raised platform where Oliver stands tall and solemn in a black suit that

emphasizes the breadth of his shoulders daisy slips in at the back

heart hammering against her ribs she's dressed in a simple blue dress the pendant Oliver gave her years ago

gleaming at her throat her eyes scan the gathered crowd and immediately she notices something

different about them they sit too still too alert predators at

rest this is a shifter ceremony and she's an outsider in every

sense nicholas stands beside Oliver his expression severe on the opposite side

waits Robin respplendant in a gown of ivory silk her family arrayed behind her

like an army preparing for alliance not celebration as music swells from hidden speakers

Daisy shrinks into her seat suddenly questioning her decision to come what had she expected to walk in

and find Oliver waiting with open arms he's about to be mated bonded forever to

another the officient an elderly woman with silver hair and knowing eyes steps

forward her voice carries across the clearing without effort we gather today to witness the bonding

of two ancient bloodlines she inones a union that strengthens not just the grey

pack but all shifter kind daisy watches Oliver's face handsome stoic

distant his eyes sweep the crowd once more searching before settling into a

mask of duty the bond between mates is sacred the efficient continues a joining not just

of bodies and packs but of souls something in her words makes Daisy sit

straighter she thinks of Oliver's letters of his description of soul bonds rare and powerful like having one soul

in two bodies robin steps forward to speak her vows her voice clear and confident

i come to you Oliver Gray offering the strength of my bloodline the loyalty of

my pack the honor of my name i vow to stand beside you as we lead our united

packs into prosperity daisy frowns that's it these

are her vows not a word about love not a mention of desire or devotion or dreams

shared nothing about Oliver's sense of humor or his penchant for mystery novels

this is a business transaction dressed in ceremonial language oliver steps forward his expression solemn as stone i

Oliver Gray accept your offering and return it with my own i vow to Daisy stands abruptly she hadn't

meant to her body seems to move of its own accord propelled by a sudden overwhelming certainty that this is

wrong the movement catches Oliver's eye mid-sentence his words falter then

stop entirely as their gazes lock across the clearing his expression transforms in an

instant the mask of duty cracking to reveal such naked hope such raw longing

that a collective gasp rises from the assembly is there a problem the

efficient asks sharply daisy hadn't planned to speak hadn't planned to do anything but

witness but Oliver is still looking at her like she's the answer to a question he's been asking his entire life and the

words tumble out before she can stop them don't she says her voice carrying

in the sudden silence don't do it you don't love her murmurs ripple through the crowd

swelling into exclamations of shock and outrage nicholas's face darkens with

fury daisy Oliver says her name alone silencing the crowd we talked about this

before she knows what he means her letters years ago urging him not to

commit to Maya without love and I stand by what I said,' Daisy

replies clenching her fists to stop their trembling 'you can't commit your soul for for duty it's not

right.' Oliver's jaw tightens 'what else am I supposed to do?' His voice

holds an edge of bitterness i can't marry for love Daisy she opens her mouth to protest but

he continues i can't because the woman I love belongs to someone else and I will

never love another the crowd erupts into chaos at this declaration shifters leap to their

feet voices raised in shock and confusion nicholas drops his head into his hands a picture of exasperation

oh,' Daisy whispers the single syllable lost in the cacophony oliver stands rigid on the

platform his eyes