Chapter 81

Nicole After dinner, when it was approaching half-past ten, Damien suggested heading to The Howl to properly welcome Skyler home. My first instinct was to beg off, claiming exhaustion, but the expectant looks from the family had me swallowing my excuses. "Zack's already arranging everything," Damien told his brother, his hand coming to rest briefly at the small of my back. By the time we arrived at The Howl , several familiar faces were already waiting. Jett Lawson lounged against the bar with his usual imperious expression. Zavier Hayes was there too, looking far more relaxed in his territory than he ever did at the hospital. A few other men I didn't recognize nodded respectfully at Damien as we entered - lower-ranking pack members. I'd barely taken my seat when Dodie materialized beside me, already munching on some bar snacks. As a pregnant, her belly created a proud curve beneath her stretchy dress. She looked radiant but restless. "This is torture," she grumbled, popping another pr