---- My wolf shifted restlessly within me. Jack's body was just too tempting. Apleased smile tugged at his lips when he saw me drinking the soup. "Anna, I'm just so happy," he said, his eyes glowing with relief. "You'll never have to suffer those chest pains again. "There's one more thing... It's something I've been thinking about for a long time. Anna... Would you give me a chance to mate with you?" I started coughing uncontrollably, struggling to catch my breath. He quickly moved to my side and patted my back. The clean, woodsy scent of pine that always clung to him filled the air around me. As he looked down at me, the usual teasing glint in his eyes dimmed, giving way to a flicker of vulnerability. ---- For a fleeting moment, he reminded me of the Perman Shepherd I'd loved as a child. Iwas doomed. A quiet sigh escaped me. Once a she-wolf began to feel sorry for a werewolf .. It usually meant her heart was already lost to him. "You and Alan signed the mate bond dissolution papers, didn't you?" Jack's eyes dropped, his voice barely above a whisper. "Please... just give me one chance." Without waiting for a reply, he stood up abruptly. "you don't have to answer right away. Take your time. Call me when you've made up your mind. Until then, I'll stay away." As soon as he was gone, I reached for my phone and dialed his number. "I've made up my mind. It's ayes." ---- On the other end, Jack chuckled quietly. ''Luna Anna... This will be the last time I use such formalities. It's been a pleasure doing business with you." With that, footsteps thundered down the hall, growing louder with every second. Suddenly, the door slammed open. Ina flash, Jack swept me into his arms. His warmth enveloped me, quickening my heartbeat. My gaze fell to the loose collar of his shirt, the glimpse of skin beneath setting my pulse racing wildly. Ona sudden instinct, I cupped his face and kissed him. He hesitated for a moment before pulling me closer, his hands gripping my waist firmly. His kiss was intense, almost overwhelming. I broke away, my breath catching in my throat." ---- I'm still recovering..." I whispered. Jack grasped my hand like a lifeline, his eyes shining with pure joy. "Anna, you have no idea how happy I am." I could have sworn I saw his tail wagging.