Alpha Hunter never anticipated bonding with a human, yet claiming one proves far superior to facing the void of matelessness. When Hunter finally accepts his mate's human nature, a far more troubling revelation emerges—one that threatens to shatter everything. His destined mate is still underage, mere weeks from eighteen, bearing the deep scars of paternal cruelty. Years of abuse have left her withdrawn and fearful, struggling to trust anyone, particularly men. Now Hunter must navigate the impossible: honoring the mate bond while protecting the fragile woman who needs him most.