Introduction
The name “Dreamlanders” was given to them by others—a dismissive label, branding them “Rogues.” But the Dreamlanders embraced it, for it spoke to their core belief. They hadn’t sought dishonesty or lawlessness; they’d simply found themselves at odds with the rigid principles of their Alpha’s pack.
They hadn’t broken rules for the sake of rebellion, but because those rules stifled their rights. The Dreamlanders believed in a freedom their old pack denied. This conviction led to banishment, pushing them to the fringes of society, transforming outsiders into a new kind of pack.
They built their own community, naming it “Dreamland,” a place of strength and autonomy. While their rules were more flexible than those of traditional packs, their Alpha, Hazel Larson, maintained firm control. The Dreamlanders saw themselves as living proof that dreams could manifest into reality.
Hazel Larson, granddaughter of the original Dreamlanders, was determined, strong, and fiercely protective of her pack. She never backed down from a fight, but her stubbornness and resolve were fueled by an unwavering commitment to her people.
Two years after her eighteenth birthday, Hazel hadn’t met her mate. She knew he wasn’t among the Dreamlanders—she’d have sensed his presence by now. Her worst fear was taking root: he was an outsider, a human perhaps, or a Lycan from a pack that operated by different rules. This fear haunted her daily, but she’d already made her decision. She would reject him.
She wouldn’t abandon the pack her family had built over years of hardship. As Alpha, she couldn’t make selfish decisions that would jeopardize their future. Her duty lay with her people, and she refused to risk their safety for personal desires.
Quinton Porter, however, would do anything for his mate. He felt a missing piece within him, a void that only his other half could fill. He would protect his pack fiercely, but his mate’s well-being superseded all else.
Quinton assumed his mate belonged to another pack—unless, impossibly, she was human. He was a leader, and he needed to project an aura of intimidation. The pack’s stability depended on it. Quinton was the hundred and eighth Alpha of Dustfall, following in the footsteps of a father whose leadership had become legendary.
He didn’t want to fail his pack.
Quinton had idolized his father his entire life, longing to step into his role. But leadership was far more than issuing commands. It was paperwork, agonizing decisions, and meticulous planning. It was an endless stream of responsibility. It was, simply, part of the job description.