She's a human. Forbidden. My brother's widow. But deep down, my wolf believes she's mine.

Before my brother died, he made me swear to stand by his human mate and their son. It's been 10 years since his death, and I've done my best. I joined the military, got my sh*& straight.

I sent money but stayed away from Julia and my nephew. Stayed out of their life. She didn't need a screw-up like me hanging around.

That was the lie I told myself. The truth was, I couldn't resolve my attraction to her. And I can't dishonor my brother's memory by claiming his wife.

But now her pup has entered puberty. He's become a wolf. He needs me there to guide and protect him.

Julia hasn't forgiven me for the years I stayed away, but this time I'll do right by her. I'd do anything for the two of them.

But she's the one I want to guide. Protect. Command. She's the one I crave and will until my last breath.