“I forbid you to take one step out that door.” Lucas’s voice, stern and infuriating, ripped through the air. He might be the Alpha, but he was also my brother, and he had no say in my plans. My friends were waiting in the car, ready for our last hurrah before the mating ceremony.

“You mean like this?” I challenged, stepping one foot over the threshold, arms crossed, a smirk playing on my lips. A low growl rumbled from his chest, a familiar sound when I pushed his buttons.

“Layla, don’t provoke me. I said you weren’t going, and that is final.” His teeth gritted as he lunged, grabbing my arm and pulling me back into the packhouse. “Oh yeah, looks like I am stopping you.” He dragged me towards the grand staircase, his grip like iron.

“Mother!” I shrieked, my last resort. Lucas tried to cover my mouth, but it was too late. Her footsteps thundered down the hall.

“Layla, what is wrong?” she asked, her eyes falling on Lucas’s hand clamped around my arm. “Lucas, let go of your sister immediately.” The scolding tone made me smile as he released me. This was going to be good.