I've lost count of the number of Lunar Mate ceremonies I've attended where every eye is on me.

As the son of shifter royalty, I'm supposed to find a fated mate who will continue my family's powerful legacy. But at forty years of age, everyone is starting to think that person doesn’t exist, including me.

Then I experience a pull so deep and so undeniable, that when I look up and meet the eyes of a waitress, our gazes lock. Recognition sparks between us.

In an instant, I'm sure. This woman is mine.

I can tell my parents sense the connection, too. But judging by their expressions, they know something I don't.

Like me, they're aware she's special. But the fear in their eyes tells me she's the last person on earth they want to be my mate…