Clare POV:
I took a steadying breath and forced my shoulders to relax. The next wolf approaching had the makings of a hunter—tall, lean, eyes like polished bronze. He moved with that predatory confidence I'd seen in every pack alpha, every rogue warrior, every monster dripping power. Perfect.
I pressed my back against the cage bars as he came into view, crossing his arms and giving me a slow once-over that made my skin crawl. My heart pounded—part fear, part adrenaline, part something eerily close to excitement.
"Hey there," he rumbled, voice low and amused. "Didn't expect you to last this long without crying."
I let a small, mocking laugh slip out. "Why would I cry? I'm too busy wondering who's going to pick me next." I lifted one shoulder, trying to look bored, detached—like I had options.
