Chapter 16: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … The signature hair!
Troy finally meets his half-brother, Ryan, whose striking resemblance to their father, Reynard, leaves Troy speechless. The meeting is punctuated by the boisterous Paul, whose flamboyant comments about Ryan’s hair distract from the emotional weight of the moment. However, the lightheartedness is quickly shattered by Paige, a friend of Ryan and Jeremy, who unexpectedly kisses Troy, fulfilling a teenage pact among friends. This unexpected greeting introduces a new layer of intrigue and leaves Troy utterly bewildered.
Paige’s kiss is followed by revelations about Philip, a person Troy vaguely remembers, and Stan, another member of the pack who remains a mystery. Troy’s confusion deepens as he struggles to piece together these new connections. “Follow you and who?” Troy rasped, still reeling from the surprise kiss and the influx of unfamiliar names. Joel, introduced as Philip and Paige’s father and a close friend of Reynard, offers a warm hug, adding another complex relationship to the already tangled web of family and friends.
The introduction of several new characters—Ryan, Paige, Stan, and Joel—expands the world of the werewolf pack and introduces further mysteries. The chapter ends with Troy still grappling with the implications of his newfound family and the unexpected kiss, leaving him questioning his past and eager to learn more about Philip and Stan’s roles in his life. The scene concludes with the hanging question, who is Stan, and the promise of more revelations to come.
Chapter 17: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Brothers bond!
A clandestine meeting, convened by the Alpha of Alphas, focuses on Troy’s impending first shift. Jeremy, deeply concerned, voices his belief that their mother, Cora, is attempting to suppress the transformation with sleeping potions, a dangerous and unorthodox approach opposed by Philip, Joel, and others. Deloris pleads for understanding, empathizing with Cora’s maternal instincts, while Jeremy insists on a more natural process, citing Troy’s evident discomfort and the fact that he’s a 21-year-old, not a pup. “I’m saying he’s a ticking time bomb,” Jeremy declares, highlighting the urgency of the situation.
The tension is palpable as the pack elders debate the best course of action. Joel reveals Cora’s involvement in administering the sleeping draught, explaining that the shift is long overdue. The discussion illuminates the complex dynamics within the werewolf pack, revealing both familial loyalty and professional disagreement. The weight of family history and Troy’s mysterious past adds another layer of intrigue to the already fraught circumstances. “But that doesn’t make it right, Deloris,” Jeremy insists, underscoring the conflict between maternal instinct and the potential risks to Troy’s well-being.
The meeting’s gravity is juxtaposed against a seemingly ordinary day Jeremy and Troy shared earlier. During a tour of the pack lands, Jeremy observes the first signs of Troy’s imminent transformation—restlessness and intense heat—culminating in a scene where Troy, drenched in sweat, exclaims, “Have I been here before?” The familiar feeling of the woods, coupled with his physical distress, foreshadows the inevitable and leaves the reader anticipating the dramatic shift to come.
Chapter 18: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … To shift or not to shift!
Troy, experiencing intense discomfort, reveals a “monthly ailment” to Jeremy, believing it a recurring illness since age fifteen, previously treated by a potion from his warlock guardian, Mary. He describes the symptoms—severe cramps and flushes—and the teasing he endured from other warlocks, leading him to believe he’s experiencing something akin to a woman’s menstrual cycle. He begs Jeremy to ask Deloris, a powerful warlock within the pack, for help. “I’m sick,” Troy insists, his desperation palpable.
Jeremy, however, recognizes the symptoms as signs of Troy’s impending first shift into werewolf form. He tries to explain this to Troy, who dismisses the idea, citing the lack of apparent pain in other werewolves during their transformations. “It’s always painful the very first time,” Jeremy counters, attempting to reassure his brother. Troy vehemently rejects this explanation, convinced he’s genuinely ill and unwilling to accept his werewolf nature, exclaiming, “I’m human, and that’s how I’m going to stay.”
The brothers’ conversation reveals a critical conflict: Troy’s denial of his werewolf heritage and his desperate plea for a “cure” versus Jeremy’s understanding of the true nature of his brother’s suffering. This misunderstanding highlights the emotional turmoil Troy experiences, his fear of the unknown, and the crucial role Deloris might play in resolving the situation. The chapter ends with a stark refusal from Troy, leaving the reader questioning his next actions and the repercussions of his decision.
Chapter 19: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … A mother worries!
Paige, Ryan, and Philip await their mother, Gloria, and a visibly distressed Troy. Jeremy’s concern for Troy’s worsening condition, stemming from his rejection of Jeremy’s werewolf explanation, clashes with Philip’s eagerness to see Troy, hinting at a deeper connection. Stan, introduced as a boisterous werewolf, immediately befriends Troy, offering a tour of the pack’s territory, a welcome distraction from the escalating tension. “I’m unapologetically crazy, bruh,” Stan grins, setting a lighthearted tone amidst the growing storm.
Gloria’s arrival intensifies the situation; she’s displeased with the group’s actions concerning Troy, leading to a heated argument. Troy, despite his physical discomfort and emotional turmoil, observes the heated exchange between the pack members, highlighting his growing acceptance of the werewolf community, although he is still unaware of his own nature. “Yo, Troy,” Stan bellows, initiating a casual conversation that provides a temporary respite from the family drama.
The chapter culminates in a clash between Gloria and the others, their argument mirroring Troy’s internal conflict. Troy’s physical state, described as “a total wreck,” underscores the urgency of his situation, leaving him caught between his denial and the undeniable signs of his werewolf transformation. His growing connection with Stan, amidst the brewing family conflict, suggests a potential path toward acceptance. The scene ends with a fiery argument, leaving the reader wondering about the outcome of the confrontation and Troy’s fate.
Chapter 20: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … The AA goes ballistic!
Troy’s explosive outburst, fueled by his mounting pain and resentment towards the werewolves’ interference, culminates in an unexpected display of power. He unleashes a fireball, accidentally targeting Ryan, only for Ryan to be inexplicably shielded from harm. Paige’s terrified reaction, “Oh my god, oh my god, oh my god,” perfectly captures the room’s collective shock and underscores the mysterious nature of Ryan’s protection. Jeremy’s immediate, angry response, “What the f$$k, you little s$$t,” highlights the escalating tension and Troy’s vulnerability.
Jeremy’s aggressive reaction to Troy’s accidental magic triggers Philip, the alpha, who shifts into his wolf form and forcefully defends his mate. Philip’s furious command, “‘Take your f$$$$$g hands off my mate’,” sets the stage for a dramatic confrontation between the two powerful werewolves, Jeremy, an Ojah and alpha, and Philip, also an alpha. The scene is punctuated by Jeremy’s desperate attempts to de-escalate the situation, “Easy there, Philip,” as he recognizes the threat of the alpha’s rage. The power dynamic is clarified, highlighting Jeremy’s immense abilities as an Ojah.
The conflict explodes into a fierce battle between Jeremy and Philip, their transformation into wolves initiating a brutal physical altercation. Stan’s intervention, albeit delayed with a casual, “Oh, damn, I forgot,” allows the fight to spill out onto the balcony and into the surrounding woods. The chapter ends on the thrilling note of the two alphas disappearing into the forest, leaving the others to process the chaotic events and the lingering mystery of Ryan’s unexpected protection leaving everyone in shock and anticipation of what comes next.
Chapter 21: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Where the heart belongs!
Ryan, relieved after Gloria’s change of heart, reflects on the day’s events, the strain clearly visible on Gloria, and the surprising size of his own stomach. He whispers reassurances to his unborn child, acknowledging the child’s role in saving several people, including Troy, who is now missing. Ryan falls asleep, only to awaken to Jeremy and Philip, both looking disheveled, and learns that Troy vanished after their fight. “He just disappeared,” Ryan explains, adding to the growing mystery surrounding Troy’s sudden absence.
Jeremy and Philip’s reunion is charged with playful banter, masking their underlying concern for Troy’s disappearance. Their conversation, punctuated by phrases like “Lip’s got nothing on me” and “Where exactly did you take him on that tour of yours?”, reveals the close bond and shared worry. However, their teasing quickly gives way to a shared sense of urgency regarding Troy’s whereabouts. “S$$t,” Jeremy mutters, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The missing Troy leaves Jeremy and Philip to plan their next steps. The casualness of their exchange — “Meet you at the reception in ten?” — belies the serious implications of the situation. The chapter ends with a palpable sense of unease and anticipation as the search for Troy begins, leaving readers questioning what caused Troy’s sudden departure and what dangers lie ahead for him.
Chapter 22: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Premier shift!
Philip awakens to Troy’s desperate plea for help, “Help me,” finding him in excruciating pain. He carries the unconscious Troy, “Pain… so much pain,” to the Jungle Room, a basement area with iron bars, instructing his aides to leave him alone with the newly shifted werewolf. The aides, aware of the inherent danger of a first-time shifter’s uncontrollable rage and the unusual nature of Philip’s actions – a premier shifter should not be near another during their first shift– obey without question, highlighting the pack’s respect for their alpha.
The chapter underscores the world-building detail of werewolf transformations, explaining the extreme danger and uncontrollable primal urges (“the thirst…the hunger…the urge to kill”) associated with a werewolf’s initial shift. Philip’s actions directly contrast with established norms: no one, especially not Philip, is supposed to be near Troy during this critical time. His willingness to handle this alone—a choice born from something far stronger than simple Alpha authority— hints at a deeper connection between him and Troy, one unseen by the pack, fueling speculation and raising questions.
The scene culminates in a tense isolation with Philip and Troy alone in the Jungle Room, the iron bars a stark symbol of both confinement and potential violence. The narrative subtly hints at something beyond the expected, suggesting a hidden bond or secret motivating Philip’s actions. The reader is left hanging, wondering what will happen to Troy as he experiences his first transformation, alone with Philip in the dangerous confines of the Jungle Room.
Chapter 23: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … The golden wolf!
Troy’s excruciating first transformation continues, marked by intense pain, —”Feels like my intestines are rearranging themselves,” he cries—and the shedding of his clothes. Philip, defying pack norms, remains by his side, offering comfort amidst the chaos. Stan’s insensitive comments about the process are quickly silenced by Philip, highlighting their contrasting personalities and the alpha’s unwavering focus on Troy. Philip’s actions, far from the expected aloofness of a powerful alpha, speak volumes about their unique bond.
Troy’s agony intensifies as the shift progresses; “Oh god, I can feel him,” he screams, sensing the emergence of his inner wolf. The surprising revelation is the wolf’s intense anger, a detail that hints at a deeper, unexplored conflict within Troy’s past or his suppressed inner nature. This is countered by Philip’s quiet, unyielding support, even as Troy vomits on him and Philip seems to share his pain.
The chapter introduces Jeremy, whose eyes turn a blood-red, signifying a dangerous shift of his own, possibly tied to his Ojah spirit. The transformation signals a new level of threat to the story, as Jeremy, now uncontrollably powerful, quietly departs with a chilling instruction: “Call Joel.” The scene ends with impending doom, leaving the reader breathlessly awaiting the arrival of the mysterious Joel and the potential consequences of Jeremy’s uncontrolled shift.
Chapter 24: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Marked!
Troy’s transformation completes, revealing a stunning golden wolf, a rare and beautiful sight that fills Philip, his mate, with overwhelming pride and joy. Philip’s celebratory howl, echoing for miles, inadvertently alerts others to their bond, prompting concern from Joel, who foresees the dangers ahead for Troy, unlike the more experienced Ryan. Despite Joel’s warnings, Philip is completely captivated by his mate, showering the newly transformed wolf with affection.
This tender moment is shattered as Troy’s wolf erupts in a furious rage. The intensity of this anger, clearly felt by Philip, creates tension between the pair. “Open the damn door,” Troy growls mentally to Philip, expressing his frustration at his perceived confinement, but Philip cannot comply. Troy’s unleashed inner wolf now sees Philip as a target. “Is this supposed to be my cage then?” Troy’s wolf challenges.
The conflict escalates as Troy’s wolf, emboldened by his newfound power and fueled by resentment, prepares to attack Philip. Troy’s unshielded thoughts reveal his intentions with chilling clarity, leading to a tense confrontation. “I’ve wanted to do this for a long time,” Troy snarls, poised to strike. Philip, despite his love for Troy, is now faced with a direct threat from his volatile mate. The chapter ends with Troy lunging at Philip, leaving the reader in suspense about the outcome of this volatile encounter.
Chapter 25: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Self-realization!
Troy awakens in Philip’s room, disoriented but aware of his transformation into a werewolf. He recalls a hazy memory of a furious fight with Philip, fueled by his newfound power and confinement, marked by the chilling thought, “I’ve wanted to do this for a long time.” The fragmented memories include a struggle, and Troy finds himself both surprised and amused by the turn of events, muttering, “Twerp,” despite the conflict. He discovers a bite mark on his neck, a vivid reminder of their encounter.
The discovery of the bite mark triggers an intense reaction in Troy, a powerful o$$$$m that he recognizes from his prior reading. Overwhelmed by the experience and the newfound physical changes – enhanced musculature and a startlingly hard erection – he marvels at the intensity of the pleasure, admitting, “I’d never felt anything so exquisitely good.” He reflects on the dominance and ownership implied by the act, leaving him breathless and utterly captivated by the experience. The realization that this happened while he was in wolf form is both shocking and strangely exhilarating.
Suddenly, Philip’s voice, “Finally, he joins the living,” shatters the moment, signaling a shift in the dynamic and the return of the other character to the narrative. Troy, now fully aware of his transformation, his physical changes, and the overwhelming s$$$$l experience he shared with his mate, turns to face Philip’s entrance, leaving the reader to anticipate their next interaction in this emotionally and physically charged situation.
Chapter 26: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Guilt!
Troy wakes to find himself in Philip’s room, deeply embarrassed and initially denying his hunger. Philip reveals that Troy slept for a full day following their encounter in the Jungle Room, during which Troy unknowingly shifted back into human form. The conversation reveals Troy’s hazy memory of being a wolf and his subsequent transformation. Troy’s surprise at his own actions is heightened by Philip’s casual mention of the shift, leaving Troy wondering how he could have shifted without conscious recollection. He wonders about his reasons for seeking refuge in Philip’s room.
Troy’s calm shatters as he remembers a violent confrontation with another individual, Ryan, where he almost killed Ryan with a fireball conjured without conscious awareness. Overwhelmed with guilt, particularly upon learning Ryan is pregnant, Troy frantically insists on apologizing, completely disregarding his nakedness in front of Philip. He expresses remorse for his actions towards Ryan, contrasting it with his indifference toward Philip, stating, “You, I wouldn’t think twice about hurting…because you deserve to be roasted alive on an open fire…but Ryan, oh god.”
Philip, despite Troy’s harsh words, soothes his distressed mate, gently urging him to shower before apologizing to Ryan. Philip’s empathy highlights their deep bond despite Troy’s intense emotions and unsettling revelation. He explains, “Hey…” Philip said softly. “Why don’t you take a shower first just to calm yourself down?” The chapter ends with Troy’s insistence on apologizing immediately, leaving the reader in suspense about the events that led to his violent outburst and the potential consequences of his actions.
Chapter 27: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Sweet release!
Troy, still reeling from his violent outburst and the revelation of his wolf-shifting abilities, argues with Philip over his need to apologize to a pregnant Ryan. Despite Troy’s initial defiance—”Who made you the boss of me?”—he eventually agrees to shower, leaving Philip captivated by his mate’s physique. Philip, however, is far from appeased, privately planning to use “rub to bliss” to curb Troy’s sass.
Meanwhile, Stan, Joel, Paige, George, and Pete observe the situation unfold, their reactions ranging from amusement to concern. Stan celebrates Troy’s safety, guaranteed by Philip’s mating mark, while Joel and others express outrage over Philip’s disregard for council protocols in claiming Troy. “The council is going to have Philip’s head for this,” Joel frets, highlighting the serious repercussions of Philip’s actions.
Gloria, Troy’s mother, shares their anxieties, lamenting Philip’s lack of respect in marking Troy without consent, adding another layer of conflict. The chapter concludes on a note of simmering tension, with the potential for conflict with the council looming large and the unresolved tension between Troy and Philip setting the stage for future drama.
Chapter 28: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Remorse!
Troy, urged by Philip but determined to handle things alone, visits Ryan to apologize for his earlier aggression. Upon entering Ryan’s apartment, he finds Ryan and a powerful, enigmatic Jeremy intimately entwined, the atmosphere charged with potent energy that unnerves Troy. Ryan, accepting Troy’s apology, is interrupted by Jeremy, who reveals startling information: Troy’s violent outburst cost him his ability to shift.
Jeremy’s chilling declaration is underscored by his blood-red eyes, a shocking display of power linked to his identity as an Ojah, a revelation confirming Troy’s mother’s warnings. Ryan, though initially protective of Jeremy, eventually permits the brothers to interact. However, Troy remains wary, uttering, “I just came to apologize to Ryan. I mean him no harm,” highlighting the lingering tension and unresolved feelings.
The tense encounter leaves Troy shaken but relieved. Jeremy, his eyes now a calming blue, extends a hand towards his brother, a gesture met with hesitant retreat by Troy. Jeremy’s cryptic warning, “I’ll be watching you,” and the continuing mystery surrounding his power leave the future of their relationship and the overall power dynamic uncertain, ending on a cliffhanger.
Chapter 29: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Non-disclosure!
Philip and Jeremy discuss Troy’s state after their previous encounter, with Philip revealing Troy’s intense jealousy and Jeremy’s ability to read minds. Jeremy expresses concern about Troy’s emotional instability and potential for violence, highlighted by Philip’s casual, almost dismissive, reassurance, “He’ll be fine,” leaving the reader questioning the extent of Troy’s control and Philip’s confidence. “Did you compel him not to hurt anyone or destroy stuff?” Jeremy presses, highlighting the gravity of the situation.
The scene shifts to a celebratory dinner for the team, where Pete recounts Troy’s surprisingly effective, albeit aggressive, actions during a recent battle against the Wyatt clan. Pete’s humorous yet revealing anecdote, “In fact, I almost shifted back to human when I saw the boy because I wanted to strangle him with my bare hands,” underscores Troy’s unexpected battlefield prowess, contrasting his emotional turmoil with his combat effectiveness. The revelation that Troy injured Malik and Alex, “Mama G, that son of yours has got a mean aim, I ain’t gonna lie,” adds to the complexity of Troy’s character, a mixture of uncontrolled rage and surprising skill.
The chapter ends on a note of both camaraderie and lingering apprehension. While the team enjoys a relaxed celebratory atmosphere, the underlying tension surrounding Troy’s unpredictable behavior persists. The casual laughter masks a deeper concern about his volatile nature, leaving the reader anticipating the potential fallout from his actions and the ongoing mystery surrounding his shifted abilities.
Chapter 30: Philip Harrington vs. Troy ‘Travis’ Stanton~ The beat to his heart … Lovers tiff!
Troy confronts Philip, revealing his realization that their bond was magically forced, fueled by intense, confusing emotions since their first meeting. He recalls Philip’s actions, including his interference in Troy’s pack affairs and the aftermath of nearly killing Ryan, all pointing to a deliberate manipulation of their connection. “I got married without knowing I’d gotten married,” Troy states, his anger escalating as he physically begins to shift, highlighting the traumatic nature of the forced mating. Gloria and Ryan intervene, Ryan’s calming presence preventing a violent outburst, leaving Philip feeling isolated and responsible.
The tension between Philip and Troy is palpable as Ryan’s calming influence subsides. “Can we talk after…” Philip asks, but Troy brushes him off, “Nothing to talk about,” leaving a clear rift between them. This emotional turmoil contrasts sharply with the celebratory dinner that follows, where Troy apologizes for his earlier behavior and engages with the team. However, the underlying discord remains, with Philip feeling withdrawn and his wolf unusually quiet, while Troy displays a fragile calm masking lingering resentment.
The chapter ends on a note of uneasy peace. While a festive atmosphere surrounds the team’s dinner, Philip’s emotional distance and Troy’s controlled anger are significant. The forced mating and its ramifications hang over the scene, setting up future conflict, particularly between Philip and Troy, and leaving the reader questioning the stability of their relationship and the lasting consequences of Philip’s actions.