Chapter 38

Lila’s POV

“I’m starving,” I announced to Rowan, my boots crunching over fresh snow as I made a beeline for the front door. My stomach growled in emphatic agreement. The more I thought about hunkering down at home with a lumbering hunting wolf pacing our hallways, the more convinced I was that my evening needed a side of sandwiches—and a generous dose of human company.

“Let’s go raid your buddy Asher’s place,” I said, almost to myself. “You know, the guy famous for those—uh—gross PB&J extravaganzas?” My brain scrambled to justify the insult as friendly banter. My nerves were fraying at the raw edges; no way in hell I was staying behind with a wolf eyeing me like I might be dinner.

Rowan tensed, gleaming dark fur bristling. He pressed against my leg in a gesture that I was pretty sure meant yes, he’d happily snatch me up if I tried to bolt. I choked back a giggle at his dramatic protective posture.

We padded onto his porch, which was about the size