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“So what you’re saying is”—I squinted at him—“being a mutt is actually a good thing?”

Derek growled. “Don’t call yourself that.”

“Fine. Being a… diversely gifted individual?”

“Your human blood,” Marcus continued, shooting Derek a quelling look, “actually enhances certain abilities. Quarter-wolves can access both human and wolf magic in ways pure wolves can’t.”

“Is that why I can suddenly do parkour through the forest? Because let me tell you, that was definitely not in my skill set before last night.”

Caleb’s fingers traced idle patterns on my neck. “You’re more adaptable than pure wolves. More resistant to certain weaknesses. Your body naturally knows how to blend both sides of your heritage.”

“Plus,” Derek added with a hint of pride, “you managed to draw blood from an alpha wolf with nothing but a stick and attitude.”

“Hey, that stick was premium forest debris, thank you very much.” I paused. “Wait, is that why you three keep looking at me like I’m some kind of supernatural jackpot? Because I’m basically a magical hybrid that shouldn’t exist?”

“We look at you like that because you’re our mate,” Marcus said firmly. “The fact that you’re potentially more powerful than any quarter-wolf in recorded history is just…”

“Bonus points?”

“Something like that.” Caleb chuckled.

“Great,” I muttered. “So not only am I supernatural catnip, but I’m apparently premium, artisanal, locally sourced supernatural catnip. With extra magic sprinkles on top.”

Chapter 2

“So,” I said,absently scratching Scout’s ears, “when do we start the whole ‘learning to be a proper supernatural being’ thing? Because right now, I’m basically running on instinct and sass, and while that’s gotten me this far, I’d prefer not to rely on finding conveniently placed sticks every time I need to defend myself.”

Marcus’ expression did that thing where he was trying not to look worried but totally failing. “Kai?—”

“Before you go all protective alpha on me,” I cut in, “remember that I managed to draw blood from those wolves with zero training. Imagine what I could do if I actually knew what I was doing.”

“You also got hurt,” Derek growled.

“Yeah, and whose fault was that? Oh right, the people who kept me in the dark about being supernatural catnip.” I gave them my best unimpressed look. “Knowledge is power, guys. And right now, I’m running on empty.”

Caleb’s fingers tightened slightly on my neck. “We want you safe.”

“And I want to be able to protect myself. Because, news flash, you three can’t be my bodyguards forever. What happens when I need to go to the grocery store? Or work? Are you going to take shifts following me around like some kind of supernatural security detail?”

The brothers exchanged looks that suggested they’d absolutely considered exactly that.

“Oh my God, you have a schedule already planned, don’t you?”

Marcus cleared his throat. “We merely discussed certain security measures?—”

“Nope. No way. I refuse to be that person who needs an alpha escort to buy toilet paper.” I straightened up, ignoring my protesting muscles. “I need to learn how to handle myself. My powers, my wolf side, all of it.”

“You’re still recovering from last night,” Marcus pointed out.

“Then let’s start with the basics. Training. Exercise. Whatever I need to do to not feel like I got hit by a supernatural truck every time I tap into these supposed powers.”

Another loaded look passed between the brothers.

“What?” I demanded.

“Before we begin any training,” Marcus said carefully, “I want Dr. White to examine you.”

“A doctor?” I squeaked. “No. Absolutely not. I don’t do doctors.”