The Awakening — Episode 4

outside the Whitmore house. He looked like he'd just had a fight with Chloe. It was raining. He was soaked through, blood on his hands. I'd never seen him like that. I took his hands and checked the wounds. You like me? Ryder turned to look at me, as my face went hot. I nodded before I could think. I didn't have time to wonder why he was even there. The Ashfords and the Whitmores had

never gotten along. He shouldn't have been here, and he definitely shouldn't have lost control in front of Chloe. Then let's make it official. Just like that, I became Ryder Ashford's girlfriend. Kale pulled over in front of an old apartment building. This was where my mom and I used to live. I'd kept the rent up all through high school. Side jobs. Cash only. The Whitmers had no

It was the only space I left to myself. Nora Collins. I turned to look at him. I saved your life. I know. How are you going to pay me back? Kale Mercer. Alpha of the Mercer family. He could could have anything he wanted. I couldn't think of a single thing I had that would be worth his time. What do you want? Haven't decided yet. You owe me one. I'll come collect when I figure it

out. He reached across me and pushed my door open. I got out, stood on the curb, and watched black SUV disappear around the corner. Back inside the apartment, I locked the door and against it. Finally, had a moment to process what just happened. I had a bond with Kale a permanent one. The mark on the back of my neck was still warm. Oh my god, that's Kale Mercer.

The shock hit me on a delay. I pressed both hands over my face and let out a muffled scream.