Jeremy’s POV
Right outside the door, my body locks up, every instinct screaming to rip through it, to tear the hinges free and deal with whoever waits on the other side. Then I hear the faint hiss of music. Bass thudding softly through headphones, a rhythm too steady, too oblivious. I tilt my head, listen harder, and slow my breathing to listen better.
She can’t hear me.
The realization cools the edge just enough to keep my control intact. The girl inside is unaware, sealed off in her own little world, not a threat, not prey. My wolf snarls in frustration but yields, knowing she’s too young to be left alone at home, meaning somebody else is here. I leave her untouched and move on, barefoot and quiet, senses flaring wider.
Passing a mirror in the hallway, I see my reflection- a bit on t
