The dream had surprised me. I remember standing in the middle of the street, clutching a bright yellow flyer in my hand. None of the landmarks were recognizable. The tall, looming buildings that filled both sides of the road, the random parked cars, and the flickering signs in store windows were all foreign to me. Confusion washed through me and one glance at the paper in my hand only compounded it.
Whoever had created it boldly claimed to know my heart’s desire in finding true love and challenged me to take a risk and go to the advertised address. Judging from the paper’s crumpled texture and appearance; I’d discarded the ludicrous invitation only to smooth it out again. The mystery place was located on Pierce Street and sure enough, the street sign above my head bore the same name.
Feeling somewhat courageous, I rounded the corner and scoped out the area before approaching my destination. My first impression was that it was similar to the other buildings surrounding it; but silent warning bells began ringing when I noticed that all of them were empty—no lights or signs of life. I had assumed my destination would be a store or even a nightclub—someplace that would use cheesy gimmicks to draw in customers. The closer I looked, however, the more I realized something wasn’t right. Broken shards of glass jutted from the broken windows and trash littered the neighboring alley.
The flyer had mentioned finding my soul mate. Shaking my head, I was disappointed in myself for believing. It certainly didn’t look like the place where the future Mr. Destiny was to be found. It was more like a location to find Mr. Lost and Homeless. I studied the paper again, my brows furrowing into a worried frown. The safe bet would be to go home and forget all about it, yet something kept drawing my attention back to the vacated premises. What was even stranger was my lack of fear. I was more curious than anything, wanting to know whether the information on the flyer was for real.
I took a deep breath and threw caution to the wind, determined to uncover the truth.
Standing right next to the building, I examined it more closely. I approached the front door, which was perched atop a dilapidated set of steps and notice it was boarded over. I climbed the short staircase and pushed hard with my werewolf strength. It didn’t budge, the force of my body doing nothing to dislodge it. The exposed door handle looked corroded and when I placed my hand over it, rusted flakes sprinkled to the ground. There would be no getting in this way.
Why can’t things be easy? I thought, shaking my head in frustration.
I paced around the front, looking for another way in. I even entertained the idea of shimming through the lower floor windows, but the jagged glass shards were shiny, sharp reminders of how quickly I’d slice and dice myself if I was foolish enough to try that option.
There has to be a way in. I pocketed the flyer and gingerly touched the closest window frame. Without placing any pressure, a small line of blood began welling on my skin and I sucked on my finger—easing the slight sting. The only possible entrance left uninspected was the building’s side, in the alleyway.
Judging from the unpleasant smells wafting from that direction, I could only imagine what I’d find. Making sure I was still alone, I silently prayed there was no danger lurking in the dark shadows. I still didn’t know whether this was a set up or legit. Letting my curiosity dictate again, I entered the narrow alley.
The stench hit me—the decaying neglect, blatantly obvious by the piled refuse on the ground. Careful about breathing through my nose, I took a wary step before delving deeper between the buildings. Two dumpsters were inconveniently in my way, filled with garbage that looked like it had been there for weeks. My gag reflex was on overload when, with one glance down the alleyway, I saw more of the same—landmines of filth just waiting for me to navigate.
So much for finding the desire of my heart, I snort. Looks like this is a wild goose chase.
Gazing at the flier again, I tossed it into the dumpster, disgusted. This whole adventure had been a waste of time and it was definitely time to go home.
What was I thinking? I must seriously be out of my mind. A love like I was looking for can’t be found in some dinghy alleyway. I berated myself.
A sudden chill ran through me—a strong sensation causing me to halt mid-step. There was no denying the gut instinct that I had overlooked something important and I needed to wait a few moments longer. A new presence made itself known and glancing over my shoulder, I saw something—an opening that hadn’t been there earlier.
This was no ordinary door. It looked out of place, when I compared it to the surroundings. Where the front entrance had looked beaten up with paint peeling, this one appeared as though it was new, fresh from the factory. Large in stature, the door was mahogany in color and sported a fancy looking knocker with the numbers 1487 displayed above it. The same as was on the flier.
This was it. I tentatively touched the door and a strange tingling energy danced over my fingertips. Yanking my arm back, I studied the strange opening closer. I stretched my hand out again, as if compelled by some unknown force, gingerly tapping the surface. The contact caused my skin to buzz.
I tried scenting the air but wasn’t able to pick up anything other than rotting food. Shaking my head, I tried again but something was blocking my ability. I’d never had this happen before and I pushed down the rising panic at not being able to overcome whatever the obstacle was. Whether strong or faint, I was a werewolf and I should’ve detected something—anything. But there was nothing. I could smell the refuse behind me but the door before me was like a blank canvas—scentless.
My curiosity flared and I knocked on the door. It was answered with a hollow echo, proving my theory all the buildings in the area were empty. Waiting a few seconds, I pounded a little louder but no one responded. It was time to face reality, I’d been suckered in and there was nothing here for me.
I checked my watch, disappointed I’d wasted an hour and probably ruined my best shoes. Giving one last glance at the door, I turned away.
“Maybe if I hurry, I can catch a cheesy late night movie on TV,” I grumbled low under my breath. I didn’t get far, though, when a soft click drew my attention back—the distinguishable sound of a lock releasing. Another strange sense of something washed over me. The door was ajar—begging me to enter.
“I must be an idiot,” I murmured, unable to take my eyes away from the beckoning mystery. Like a hook anchored deep to my center, I felt pulled forward and without hesitation, I walked through the door and entered into darkness.
It took a few moments for my eyes to adjust, the lack of light making me squint. Now that I was finally inside, I realized the obvious creep factor of what I’d done. I’d never been so foolish to go blindly into the unknown. Everything about this was strange. My curious dream now took on a more sinister tone.
I was at my destination and so far, the only danger I’d encountered was trash related. Committed to uncover the truth, I glanced around. The room looked like it had been abandoned for quite some time and it suddenly felt smaller—like a trap. Releasing a warning growl to whoever brought me here, my tone let them know it wasn’t safe trifling with a werewolf.
Edging toward the door, I careful kept my back to the wall so no one could sneak up behind me, my eyes scanning each corner for movement. This was just too odd for me. Nothing was as it should and it felt like I’d been sucked into the Twilight Zone. Common sense finally kicked in. Whether a dream, nightmare, or reality, all facts pointed to the same conclusion—it was time to get out of Dodge.
The door slammed shut with such a force, the sound echoed throughout the building—completely freaking me out. Grabbing hold of the handle, I forcefully twisted it, demanding the door to open. I tried again and again, but nothing. I knew I could scream for help; but I also knew it was pointless. Whoever had picked this location had chosen well.
No one would come for me.
Stupid, stupid wolf. I inwardly cursed. Now wake up. Leaning my forehead against the door, there was no doubt in my mind I was asleep and this was all a figment of my overactive imagination. All my longing for love and the “perfect mate” had led me to this and my subconscious had created a nightmare. I just needed to ride it out until I awoke.
Faint footsteps behind me triggered my awareness and I whipped around to face my attacker. Only it wasn’t some sinister villain, it was merely a woman—standing under a ray of light as she watched me.
So this is when the axe murderer jumps out and everyone in the film is bludgeoned in a slow and painful death. I grimaced at the sadistic thought. Wake up, Darcy! Wake up! My inner demands did nothing. I was still dreaming.
The room tilted as if all gravity and focus was laid at the feet of the stranger. I felt compelled to stare, studying the woman to determine her intentions. One glance told me everything I needed to know. She wasn’t intimidating in the slightest and, if necessary, I could easily snap her in two. My body relaxed somewhat at my quick assessment.
But, there was an ethereal energy about her, something that whispered she’d brought me here and it would be unwise to underestimate her. I began slowly pacing around her in a wide open circle. She appeared no more than twenty-five years old, but there was an eternal feel that radiated from her presence. Small and daintily packaged, she was stunningly beautiful—graceful in the way she held her body. Dressed in a gown made from sheer pastel materials that molded to her soft curves, there were gold bracelets adorning her wrists and diamond pins glinted from her long brown hair. I stood by my initial judgment. If I was forced into a fight, it wouldn’t take me long to overpower her. It wasn’t until I looked into her bright blue eyes that I knew she held power. A lot of it.
While still evaluating her, I noticed her lips move and form a smile.
Are you ready yet, Darcy? The voice in my head was crystal clear and I know it came from her.
I growled in warning again. I may not hold as much clout as she might, but I could still be just as intimidating, when threatened. I shook my head and started pacing around her, again. I wasn’t finished with my observations. She may have pulled me into this, but we would continue on my terms.
Okay. Continue. Her sigh and her words floated about in my mind.
Whoever she was, it didn’t take a genius to realize she’d drawn me here for a reason. It should’ve made her an enemy, but I didn’t feel she meant me harm. There had been opportunities for her to attack, but still she stood quietly, patiently waiting for me to accept her presence.
I stopped my inspection and walked over to face her. “Who are you and what do you want?” My voice cut through the silence.
“Who I am is not important. I am here for you, Darcy,” she replied with a voice that tinkled like bells in a springtime breeze. With a grand display of her hand, she turned on her heel and an image appeared in the dark. “Come, look at your destiny.”
Her bold declaration made my stomach swoop. Come look at your destiny. Her words resounded in my thoughts and I snorted. My destiny was murky at best; all those lonely weekends had proven that. Love wasn’t in the card for me. The endless parade of jerks and losers only wanted one thing from me, my body. They’d fled when I’d told them I was saving myself for my mate. It didn’t matter that I’d been counseled to wait. It didn’t matter that the decision had involved a vision and prophecy. No one wanted to invest time into a virgin and I’d reconciled myself to it.
There was no hiding the bitterness in my thoughts. I wanted someone to love, someone who wanted all I had to offer, someone who would cherish and protect me. I wanted what every other girl longed for her in her heart: passion, a happily ever after, the perfect person for me. I went on dates, mostly to appease my mother; but as time marched by, I slowly started giving up hope. My chest tightened with a yearning I couldn’t hide, not even in my dreams. It is what fueled my curiosity to come here to begin with.
I looked at the woman, my eyebrows raised. “Really? My destiny?” Stepping closer, I glanced between her and the image floating in the room. I still couldn’t see what it was, but once again my interest was piqued, regardless of my skepticism. She gestured for me to follow her, leading me toward it.
“Yes, Darcy, your destiny. We’ve heard your heart and brought you that which you desire most. Are you brave enough to claim it?” The challenge behind her question was obvious and instinctively I rose up to meet it.
“How do you know what my heart desires?” I asked, suspicion edging my voice. “I’ve never met you before and who is ‘we’? Who are you?”
“Come. Step forward. All your questions will be answered later.”
I approached the image, frustrated with her evasiveness and rubbed my eyes in disbelief. It was a room and in the middle stood a man—a gorgeous one.
“Look, Darcy,” the woman spoke. “This is your destiny.”
Silence returned. I couldn’t speak even if I had wanted to, as my eyes focused on the male before me. He was a stranger, yet he wasn’t. I had no memories of ever meeting him but somehow my heart recognized him and drew me closer.
“Who is he?” I whispered, unable to turn away. Even though I didn’t think he was aware of me, his stare penetrated my soul, stripping me bare. I moistened my lips and swore his eyes followed the movement. His attention caused a funny sensation in my stomach, stirring quickly before it flowed through my body.
“He is your destiny. The one you have longed for . . . waited for.”
This was him. I didn’t know how or why, only that every fiber of me confirmed what the woman was saying was true. My wolf was attentive, and I didn’t need to consult with her either—she’d already claimed him as hers.
He oozed sexuality and strength. His smoldering eyes never left mine. With dark brown hair that fell lightly to his shoulders, he lifted his hand to slide it through the strands, causing the muscles in his arm to tighten. He stood there quietly, his body relaxed; but there was no denying he was alert to his surroundings. His presence triggered something familiar. I couldn’t put my finger on. His face was strong and angular with deep, piercing blue eyes.
A soft sigh escaped through my lips. My gaze swept over his body and although it was covered with tight jeans and black muscle shirt, I knew by the way he moved his physique was in top shape. He had perfection written all over him. I was looking at everything I’d ever imagined I’d want in a mate. I wanted to bring him to me, wrap my arms around him and never let go. The intensity of my reaction surprised me, making my head spin as image after image of what I wanted to do and have him do in return ran through my mind. It was carnal . . . primal . . . an irresistible magnetic pull that would forever anchor me to this man.
My wolf howled in triumph and clamored to be released. The power of my emotions caused me to stumble backward, softly panting as my skin flushed with heat and excitement. If this was my reaction physically, heaven help me when I actually got to know him.
“Wow,” I murmured, my voice soft and husky. I lifted my fingers to my lips and pressed them softly, imagining his lips on mine. Gathering my senses, I turned around. “Who is he?”
“His name is Mason. He’s magnificent, isn’t he?” I could hear from the slight catch in her voice that she wasn’t immune to his charms either. “Fate has decreed your union pure. You will love deeply and feel more connected than you could ever imagine . . . two halves that make a perfect whole. You will never want for anything with this man.”
“Mason,” I whispered. I loved how it sounded and a tingling sensation settled in my stomach.
Mine, my wolf agreed and something clicked within me. It was like everything had finally aligned to its rightful place.
I cleared my throat. “Is he a werewolf?”
I knew it was a stupid question the moment I uttered it. All the evidence pointed to him being the same as me. There was no way a human could elicit such a response from me—my body thrumming from recognizing one of my own kind. Of course he was a werewolf.
“He is.”
Her answer troubled me. I didn’t have a good track record when it came to dating fellow wolves. Whether it was from the frustrating way they always tried to thrust their authority over me or the overprotective natures of my pack brothers, I’d vowed to never put myself through the drama again. I didn’t want to be someone’s possession or trophy.
One look at Mason, however, changed that. I wanted to be possessed by him, belong to him. I renounced all my bitter tirades about oppressive werewolf males. It didn’t matter anymore because I’d found him.
My mate.
“What does your heart desire, Darcy?”
I looked at Mason, forever changed. He was definitely what I wanted; what I’d longed for all these years, but never hoped of receiving. Closing my eyes, I pictured what a lifetime being adored by him would be like. Of loving him just as fiercely in return and waking up each morning with this man by my side, knowing there was nothing we couldn’t overcome together. In the end, it really was that simple. My physical attraction to him was intense and something deep inside me whispered my emotional connection to him would be even stronger.
“I want him.”
And with my declaration, the image disappeared and I woke up to the sound of my alarm clock blaring.
