Chapter 14

Emily’s POV

“Poppy can’t come,” Jessie announced as she hurried into the parking lot.

“What?” Tessa groaned dramatically, crossing her arms.

“She had to go back to the clinic. Doctor Reed has another emergency,” Jessie said, rolling her eyes. “It honestly feels like half the pack is trying to die this week.”

A familiar, deep laugh came from the guard station near the massive iron gates. I turned my head and saw Liam walking down the steps toward us. Alpha Marcus followed close behind him, along with his Beta.

The moment Marcus’s piercing blue eyes found mine, my breath caught.

“Good afternoon, ladies,” Marcus said smoothly, his gaze locking onto my face. His smile grew warmer and more intense. “And especially to our birthday girl.”

My cheeks burned with embarrassment. “My birthday was last week.”

“Details,” Liam shrugged dismissively, bumping my shoulder in a playful way. “You're still the reason we're going to the huma