"Heart of Stone, Heart of Gold "

*Prologue*

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The moon hung high in the night sky, casting an eerie glow over the dense forest. The pack gathered in a clearing, their eyes fixed on the imposing figure of Alpha Blackthorn. He stood tall, his presence commanding respect and loyalty from every werewolf present. His voice, calm and fair, resonated through the night as he addressed his pack.

But just beyond the circle of light, in the shadows of the trees, lurked Xander Blackthorn. His eyes, fierce and unyielding, scanned the perimeter for any threat to his brother. The pack knew better than to approach him; his reputation as the most rugged and non-approachable member of the clan was well-earned. It was this very demeanor that had kept him from finding his mate, a fate that seemed to weigh heavily on his solitary heart.

As the alpha continued his speech, a sudden rustle in the bushes caught everyone's attention. Xander stepped forward, a low growl rumbling in his chest. The pack tensed, ready for whatever danger might emerge. But Alpha Blackthorn raised a hand, his calm demeanor never wavering.

"Stand down, Xander," he said softly. "We are safe here."

Reluctantly, Xander retreated, his eyes never leaving the shadows. The pack exhaled a collective breath, their respect for the alpha deepening. They knew that as long as the Blackthorn brothers stood together, they were unstoppable. Despite Xander's intimidating presence, his loyalty to his brother was unwavering, a bond that no one dared to question.

But then, as the pack dispersed, Xander's eyes fell upon Thalia, a human who had somehow found her way into their world. For the first time, his steely exterior softened. There was something about her that drew him in, something that made him believe that perhaps his fate was not as solitary as he had always thought. His wolf inside him whispered "Mate" . All she could see was glowing olive green eyes piercing through the foliage.