Page 57 of Jace's Mate

She wasfree.

The wind tore through her fur as she raced, dodging trunks and leaping over fallen branches.Birds flitted in the canopy, their wings beating overhead.Everything was alive.Everything washers.

This was what she’d been missing.

This was what Uncle Wilton had stolen from her.

He’d demanded she suppress this wild, powerful piece of herself—and she hated him for it.Now that she understood what he’d tried to take, she wanted to tear him toshreds.

But not tonight.

Tonight, she just wanted to run.

Jace nudged her, guiding her left through a cluster of trees.She followed easily, brushing her side against his in silent joy.

Is it always this wonderful?she asked, stunned that she could send the thought to him so clearly.

Always, he replied, and his gaze made her insides tumble.His blue eyes glowed like firelight behind glass.And it gets better.

How?

You’ll feel more.Everything sharpens.Scent, thought, emotion.And mind-to-mind speaking like this?It becomes second nature.

Her breath caught as joy bubbled up through her chest like champagne.You’re right.I’ve never… I’ve never done this before.Not even a hint of it.

You’re doing it now.His approval wrapped around her like a second coat of fur.

He guided her right, nipping her neck gently, and a shiver of heat sparked through her.

Anikka stumbled.

Desire coursed through her so swiftly that her claws scraped the earth to regain balance.She didn’t even think—she pressed her side against him again, hoping for another nip.

He obliged.

She head-butted his shoulder in thanks, and he huffed a pleased sound.

Then, Jace howled—deep and commanding, the kind of sound that echoed off trees and set every instinct inside her on fire.

In the distance, voices answered.

She listened, eyes closing briefly, andcounted.The howls came from every direction.Older wolves, younger ones, betas.All safe.

Relief swept through her, and she stretched her legs, letting her stride lengthen.She tipped her head back and howled too—her voice not as loud, but strong and clear.

The response was instant—and different.These weren’t simply confirmations.These werewelcomes.Celebrations.Notes of joy and pride and affection layered in every sound.Her soul soaked it up like sunlight.

Too soon, her body began to falter.

Her stride shortened.Her panting grew louder.

I need to slow down,she told Jace, her tongue lolling as she struggled to cool herself.You keep going.

But Jace was already beside her, nipping her lightly and veering off the main trail.

Keep going.We’re almost back.

She pushed forward, fighting the heaviness in her limbs.