Page 136 of Burning Embers

My pack symbol is a flame, but directly beneath it is a zigzagging line—the same line that mars the flesh of my brothers. It’s how we knew from the beginning that we were fated to share a heart.

My mom and dad are mates, but their other two packmates—my “uncles”—aren’t. My sister once told me that she heard our mom fucking our Uncle Ted when they thought we were all out of the house.

It’s not uncommon for packs to share lovers, and it seems like my parents’ mating status doesn’t make them any different. Sometimes, unmated wolves will partake in a ceremony toconnect them with their lover. It’s not as potent or consuming as it would be if the person was their fated mate, but it’s stronger than a mere marriage.

Binding.

Eternal.

What would I have done if Izzy wasn’t my mate? If she belonged only to the others, not to me? Would I have been able to walk away?

No. I don’t think so.

The clearing of Ethan’s throat pulls me out of my reverie. My twin volleys his gaze between my phone and my father, and I get the unspoken message instantly.

Quickly, I slide my phone into my pocket.

Dad may not be as gung-ho about family dinners as Mom, but he has a strict “no phone” policy at the table. When my sister was younger, she once had her phone confiscated for an entire week because she was caught texting during dinner.

“Oh! I think I hear a car!” Mom says, canting her head to the side like a dog.

“Are you sure? I heard most people lose their hearing with old age…” Dad trails off when Mom whacks him in the bicep.

“You’re so naughty!” she squeaks with a smile. “Now, finish setting the table while I go greet our daughter.”

My sister lives in an apartment only a few miles away from the local community college, where she’s taking a few of her prerequisite classes. She actually met her boyfriend on campus, though I don’t think he’s a student. Then again, what do I know? Her boyfriend is a grade-A asshole.

Mom hurries out of the kitchen to greet them while my father begins pouring wine into glasses. He even gives me a little bit, but he passes over Ethan, unsurprisingly. My twin stares wistfully at the red liquid, but when he notices me scowling at him, he looks away.

Ethan’s been sober for over six months now. Logically, Iknowhe’s trying to right his wrongs. Iknowhe’s trying to better himself.

I know all that.

But it doesn’t take the sting out of his betrayal.

I did everything for him. Supported him. Helped him. Cared for him. And what did I get in return?

Flashing red and blue lights.

Sirens echoing in the air.

Rubble.

Blood.

Crying.

“BABY BROTHER!” Thin arms wrap around me from behind, and I awkwardly pat my sister’s hands.

“Hey, sis.”

Sydney sashays into the room, practically dragging her boyfriend along behind her.

Grayson stares first at me and then at Ethan, his features unsurprisingly expressionless.

I don’t know how I feel about the large, quiet man. Honestly, I’m not sure if I ever heard him talk before. Sydney says it’s because he’s “thoughtful” and “contemplative,” but I think he’s just a dick.

I have to give him credit, though. Syd’s last boyfriend practically ate her face off whenever he got the chance. Grayson won’t even give her a kiss in front of us.