I have been in love with Jace since I was a little girl. He was a best friend that at some point I developed deeper feelings for.

I couldn't tell you the exact moment but friendship turned to love at an early age. I've tried to let go, but nobody else compared to him...who ever could. This baby would be the defining moment between us.

As I approach the Dark Phantom pack gates, I reduce my speed. Thankfully, the guards recognise me and wave me straight through.

I pull up outside the alpha house to find the surrounding area quiet.

It was now mid afternoon, all morning training completed and the pack members either at home or carrying out their daily duties.

I let myself in, like I have done hundreds of times. No need to knock on the Varon's door...not when we are extended family. Our home is their home...and it's always been like this.

However, I am surprised to find the hallway empty, to find the downstairs silent. I had half expected some kind of celebration.

The missing alpha, finally home.

Even the alpha office door was closed, a sign that both Hector and Kaia were in a meeting...I suspect putting plans in place with Jace.

But...he isn't in there, I hear his voice upstairs, hear

him on the phone in his room.

I move upstairs, this would be better to see him in private. Best to tell him on my own than with his family in ear shot.

At least they don't know I am here yet...we have time to think things through, talk things through.

I'm not fooling myself, this isn't going to be easy. I've had hours on the drive here to let the information sink in, he'll need time...time we can spend together...letting it sink in.

If I didn't recognise his voice then the potent tropical coconut scent of his that lingers in the corridor leading to his bedroom, would be confirmation enough.

Without a doubt he was back.

My Jace was back.

Nerves suddenly wash over me, my hands shaking slightly under the sensation.

Just breathe...this was Jace.

I try to calm myself but the nerves dancing in my belly would have me turn around and walk backnoveldrama

down the stairs.

No, I needed to do this. I needed to do right by him.

My hand reaches for the door handle, taking one last intake of courage before I pull down on it and push open the door...

Only for my heart to plummet at the very sight of a female standing in front of his mirror.

A female half naked.

She was stunning...

Gorgeous.

I stare, stunned, at her reflection as I take her in. She had dark brown curly long hair, plump red lips and large breasts that filled out the sexy red lace bra she was adjusting herself with in front of the mirror.

She was wearing a matching red lace Brazilian briefs that did everything it should over her womanly curves.

For a moment I thnk I have entered the incorrect room, even double checking the corridor outside

to make sure I opened the right door.

But I hear him call out to her from the bathroom, his voice care-free...happy.

"Callie? Can you pass me a towel?"

"Sure..." She calls back out to him before turning to finally notice my figure standing in the doorway.

"Oh...sorry I didn't see you standing there. Can I help you?"

"I was...I was looking for Jace." I croak out, my voice suddenly dry, my eyes flickering between the en-suite door and her.

"We will be down in a minute." She softly smiles, her dark blue eyes scanning the length of me.

“Did Luna manage to get in touch with my parents?" Did she think I was some kind of maid here... "Jace..." Words seem to have left me as I only just gasp out his name, it is only just audible.