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I figure the best thing to do is let my gut and heart choose for me. When the time comes, I’ll know if it’s right or not. It won’t be driven by lust, even though I have a lot of it for him. It won’t be driven by someone else telling me I should be with him. With no outside interference, the decision will come from me. From my inner beast, my natural instinct.

I don’t know what breed of non-human my ancestors were, but I don’t think I have an inner beast. When I look inward, I see music. I hear the sounds of the world around me and the emotions they emit. It may sound stupid, but it’s true. I don’t know what non-human species would have such thoughts, internal feelings, or powers. I don’t recall Ginger or Hunter mentioning any non-human that is connected to sound or music. They’d probably tell me to ask Fynn. I’ve come to learn he’s the go-to with all the questions I have on, well, anything.

Trying not to freak out or have an anxiety attack while contemplating my possible decision tonight, I fill my time with Hunter until Ginger shows up with a rolling suitcase in hand and a mischievous smile on her face.

“Why do you have a suitcase with you, Ginger?” Hunter asks.

Glad to know I’m not the only one curious about it. I thought at first it might just be normal for her to bring it over on full moons with a change of clothes and whatnot for after her run.

“None of your business; it’s girl stuff.”

Hunter raises his hands in surrender, not caring to get into an argument over a suitcase. However, as a girl, I think I can ask.

“What kind of girl stuff?”

Ginger smiles at me, and for the first time, I see her canines poking out longer than normal. The sight is chilling but also makes me want to laugh because she looks far too pleased with herself.

“Oh, you’ll see. It’s for you.”

“For me?” I ask, shocked.

I take a second long look at the bag as if I’ll suddenly possess x-ray vision to see what’s inside. It doesn’t look too full. I narrow my eyes at the bag and then her.

“Yup. This is your first lunar eclipse, and possibly a very important one. So, you’re going to celebrate in style. It’s not mandatory, but I think you’ll like it.”

She looks at her brother over my shoulder, and I take a small peek back at him. He’s sitting at the kitchen island, sipping on a cup of coffee, his expression unreadable.

Ginger grips me by my elbow and steers me away from Hunter and towards the stairs.

“Come on. I’ll show you.”

There’s no room for protest with Ginger. She’s kind of an imposing figure when she wants to be. I don’t argue or resist; there’s no harm in letting her decide my outfit. Truthfully, I was fretting over what to wear. Is it a casual event? Do they all walk around nude for easy shifting?

Hunter’s been very casual about it, so I assumed whatever I wore would be sufficient. Although Ginger mentioned it being a more important night than just a standard lunar eclipse. Perhaps Hunter mentioned wanting to bond with me tonight? I haven’t spoken with Ginger much over the last couple of days and haven’t had a chance to discuss it with her more than the first night she explained everything to me. I now know she left out a few details.

We end up in Hunter’s large bedroom, and Ginger shuts the door behind us, effectively blocking Hunter’s curious gaze. Placing the suitcase on the bed, she opens it swiftly, revealing a small pile of clothing and beauty products.

The sight has me sighing regrettably. Picking out an outfit is one thing, doing the whole hair and makeup and couture gown is another. I’m burnt out from so many people putting designerpieces on me and teasing and curling my hair until every last strand is “perfect.” I just want to be me for once.

“Ginger, I don’t know about this. I’m really not in the mood to do the whole hair and makeup thing. I just want to be comfortable.”

She turns to me, frowning, but quickly smooths it out when she sees my contrite expression. Dropping the curling iron back in the suitcase, she crosses the room to me. I perch against the dresser, crossing my arms over my chest, instinctually guarding myself.

“We don’t have to do anything you don’t want to. I just thought if you do end up solidifying your mate bond with Hunter, you might like to wear something that will not only be comfortable and cute but,” she cringes and curls her lip in disgust. “Will allow for easy access. The last thing you’ll want is to slink back to the house wearing a ripped shirt, trying to cover yourself because your pants are somewhere in shreds in the forest.”

The image has my tight posture easing. Ginger rubs her hand up and down my arm, trying to soothe my tension. I give her a week smile, grateful she’s willing to be so open with me. It’s refreshing to have people just speak to me candidly.

“So, Hunter told you about wanting to solidify the mate bond?” I ask.

She smirks and winks at me, her smile returning which only puts me more at ease. “Nope. I’m just really good at paying attention to things. I know about the mate pull, and from what I’ve seen, I kind of figured he might want to do it as soon as possible. Especially with the whole Vincent lurking around town and stalking you.”

She waves her hand flippantly, sneering when she says Vincent’s name.

“Personally, I would love for you two to bond. Having another girl in the family would be a blessing. Brothers are a pain in the ass, let me tell you.”

Returning to her open suitcase, she digs through the neatly folded clothing, pulling out a bundle of white eyelet material.

“Now, I know you don’t want to get all gussied up,butI think you might like this option. We can do whatever you like with your hair and makeup. Although I would highly suggest keeping your hair light and soft. No hairspray or perfume. Remember, shifters are very sensitive to smell, and mates have a very special and alluring scent. You don’t want to cover it up.”