The air vibrated with bass, the heavy thump of the music syncing with the energy of the night. The clearing had become a glowing, chaotic masterpiece.
Shadow Crescent knew how to party, and tonight was no different.
Blacklights pulsed from all angles, making neon paint glow on skin and clothes. Bodies moved in sync with the music, wolves high on adrenaline and alcohol, some already shifting mid-dance, howling toward the sky. The scent of sweat, booze, and excitement clung to the air like an intoxicating drug.
Nova spun beside me, her red hair streaked with glowing blue paint. "Now this is a party!"
Kian grinned, lifting a bottle to her lips, her tattoos glowing under the lights. "Damn right it is."
The Silver Ridge pack?
They were struggling.
Most of them hovered at the edges, stiff, unsure. They weren't used to thisâthe recklessness, the complete disregard for rules. Their Alpha, Damon, had lost control the second he allowed us onto his land.
And I loved it.
I leaned against a tree, watching as his pack slowly got dragged into our world.
A few of his warriors had started dancing, their hesitation fading as Shadow Crescent wolves pulled them in. Someone had brought body paint, streaking neon colors across arms, faces, chests. The drinks were flowing. The music was deafening.
It was perfect.
Until a low, angry growl cut through the noise.
I didn't have to look to know who it was.
Damon.
His arms were crossed, his glare locked onto me like I was the source of all his problems. Lucas, his Beta, stood beside him, looking less angry and more... intrigued.
Nova leaned close, voice full of laughter. "I think someone's feeling territorial."
I smirked. "He rejected me."
Kian hummed, eyes flicking toward Damon. "Doesn't mean he doesn't want you."
That wasn't my problem.
Damon had made his choice. He thought I was weak, an omega unworthy of him. Now, he was watching me command a pack stronger than his, throwing a party his wolves were now a part of.
The frustration rolled off him in waves.
And I thrived in it.
Nova grabbed my hand. "Come on, Rae. Dance."
I hesitated.
Then I caught Damon's glare, the way his jaw ticked, the way his hands clenched into fists.
I smirked.
"Fine."
We owned the night.
And for once?
Damon was just a guest.