Ch. 211..220

Chapter 211

I loop my arms around Sinclair’s neck as he carries me through the palace gates, trying to steady myself even as my concerns for his injuries grow irrepressible. “Dominic no, you’ll hurt yourself.” I object, sweeping my eyes over his muscular body. He’s naked as the day he was born, and his abdomen is swollen with black and blue bruises. His feet are bleeding, and numerous smaller bruises and cuts dot his powerful form.

He doesn’t seem the least bit bothered, though I suspect he’s using the last stores of his power to stave off the pain. “Hush now, I’ve been waiting weeks to hold you, you think I’m going to let some sore ribs stop me?” Sinclair quips, brushing his lips over my forehead.

I try to help as best I can, novelebook.com sitting upright in his arms and using his strong shoulders to support my weight. I’m in the perfect position to explore the curve of his neck, and my inner wolf won’t let me pass up the opportunity. I nuzzle his sweat-stained skin, kissing and nibbling his throat – letting him feel how elated I am to have him home, and just how badly I missed him.

Sinclair emits an appreciative purr, turning his lips to my ear. “Do you want to tell me what mischief you’ve been making to make Philippe and Gabriel so grumpy?”

“Nothing.” I reply innocently, giving him my best puppy dog eyes. “They’re just mean, ill-tempered men.”

Sinclair grins wolfishly, and my heart skips a beat. “Now why do I find that hard to believe?”

“Because she’s the most ungovernable she-wolf I’ve ever met.” Gabriel snorts from beside us, also smiling. “Honestly, you’d think I was nothing but a nobody omega for all the consideration she gives my

orders.”

“I might give them more – if you were half the wolf my mate is.” I challenge, feeling thoroughly emboldened with Sinclair’s arms around me.

“Ella,” Sinclair warns in a half-amused, half-scolding tone, “Is that anyone to speak to the man who has shown us and our people such friendship and generosity?”

“Since he’s also the man who tried to lock me up so I couldn’t come after you when you were out there alone and clearly in need of help – yes.” I reply stubbornly, scowling when the King just rolls his eyes.

“I hate to break it to you baby, but the last thing I would have wanted was for you to be out there looking for me with a bomber on the loose.” Sinclair remarks, affectionate but somber as he looks to his old friend. “I know why you felt compelled to come after me, but I appreciate Gabriel looking out for you when I couldn’t. He did the right thing.” 1

I huff indignantly, “But I was the only one who even believed you were alive!” I exclaim. “None of them were doing anything!”

“They didn’t need to.” Sinclair soothes, pressing soft kisses to my cheek. “I made it home, sweetheart.

“Besides, I’m not the one who put you on bed rest, Ella.” Gabriel adds pointedly, and Sinclair stiffens, looking down at me sharply.

“It was just stress because you were missing.” I assure him quickly, “I’ll be fine now that you’re back.” He’s still watching me suspiciously, and I’m willing Gabriel not to say more. Luckily the perfect distraction awaits us as we enter the palace itself. Word has obviously spread about Sinclair’s return, and it seems as if every shifter in the vicinity has turned out to welcome him.

The halls are lined with servants, Vanaran courtiers and refugees from home. nvëlx.o The servants and Vanarans bow and smile, but the refugees drop to their knees with tears in their eyes, looking as though their prayers have been answered – which they probably have. Sinclair nods to each and every one of them with such respect, compassion and dedication, signaling that he sees and appreciates them, even if he doesn’t have the freedom to stop at this moment. I lean my head against his shoulder as my wolf overflows with pride for our mate, letting him feel every ounce of the emotion through our bond.

When we get up to our suite, Sinclair settles on the sofa with me in his lap, at last able to greet our pup properly. He runs his hands over my belly, his eyes drinking in every inch of my changed body. Just look at you. He marvels, his gaze lingering on my ever-enlarging breasts and the sudden protrusion of my popped belly button. I can’t wait until I get you alone. His wolf says in my mind. I’m going to strip you naked and kiss every inch of your beautiful body.

And you, my sweet pup. He adds, letting me hear his words to our son. I can’t believe how big you’ve gotten. I wish I could keep you safe in there forever, but I think you’re outgrowing your Mommy.

To my surprise, Rafe doesn’t respond, except to send a pulse of sullen energy through our bond – a request for my affection instead of Sinclair’s. I add my touch and my voice, thinking I might understand the problem,” Come on angel, you were so excited to feel your Daddy again.” I remind him, “Don’t be angry when he’s finally come back to us.”

Sinclair frowns, realization clicking in his mind. Tm sorry I left, little one. Please believe me when I say that it was the last thing I wanted. nvëlx.o I never want to be away from you.”

Still, the baby seeks only my attention, and I can picture our son as if he’s already been born. A miniature version of Sinclair in my arms, sulking because his father left – giving him the cold shoulder as punishment. He got angry with me for the first time too. I reveal to Sinclair through our bond. He’s getting big enough to feel more complex things now, and he hates it when he can’t feel us.

Sinclair purrs sympathetically, and I know that if he were able to take the baby from me and cuddle him directly, he would. He would bombard him with love and affection the same way he does to me when I’m cross, forcing the tiny tot to understand that no matter how far away he goes, he’ll always come back. novëebook.com Of course, for now he can only hold me. Why did he get angry with you?

The same reason. I confess, grimacing. When our call dropped the other day… I was really scared. I wanted to protect him so I tried to shield him from my feelings. But I cut myself off from him completely and… it was awful. I’ll never do it again, no matter how bad things get.

I thought you said you knew I survived? Sinclair inquires, frowning.

There’s a knock on the door, reminding us that Gabriel, Henry, Philippe and Roger are all witnessing our reunion. Philippe opens the door, and the doctor sweeps in, immediately zeroing in on us. “Alpha Dominic, I’m so pleased you’re all right.” He sets his bag on the coffee table and opens it, extracting a few tools. “Luna, if you wouldn’t mind?” He doesn’t directly ask me to move, but it’s clear he needs me out of Sinclair’s lap.

I try to rise, but Sinclair’s arms tighten around me. You haven’t answered me, mate.

Later, I promise, though his wolf growls in protest. Let the doctor examine you.

He can examine me while I hold you. He insists, glowering at the physician who would separate us.

No he can’t. I correct him sternly. He needs to see your ribs. Another wordless growl. Please, Dominic, I’ll be so worried otherwise. I beg, letting some more of my concern filter through our bond.

Sinclair arches a brow, and his wolf lets me know that he sees right through my tactics, still he must sense I’m speaking truthfully, because he concedes. Grumbling in protest, Sinclair rearranges us so that his head is resting in my lap, the rest of his long limbs sprawled over the sofa. He turns his lips to

my belly and kisses my navel, novelebook.com early a tiny kick in the mouth from our pup. I hiccup with the force of the outraged thump, but Sinclair only chuckles and kisses the same spot again, sending praise through his bond with the baby. My little fighter, I’ll kiss that foot as many times as you send it my way.

He does just that as the doctor pokes and prods at him, and soon it’s become a game between father and son. Rafe tries to trick Sinclair with his timing and placement, and Sinclair does his best to predict the next kick so he can meet it with his lips. Absolute glee bubbles through my bonds with each, and I can only grin like a fool as I watch them, barely able to focus on the doctor’s exam. As simply as that, the hurt and resentment the baby had been feeling amidst Sinclair’s absence is healed.

I can’t help but reach down and run my fingers through Sinclair’s hair— which feels about as dirty as mine after so many days in the wilderness. novelebook.com You do know that my womb is paying the price of this little game of yours?

I tease. It feels like he’s tap dancing on my organs.

Sinclair looks contrite, but also as though he doesn’t want the fun to end. Do you want me to stop?

I can only smile, thanking my lucky stars that I found this man. Don’t you dare.

Chapter 212

As soon as Sinclair left Roger and Cora alone, the human turned towards the door, determined to flee. They’d talked about the mating ceremony for the better part of an hour, but as soon as they finished making their plans, Cora made a break for it.

Before her hand could touch the door knob however, Roger’s voice stopped her in her tracks. “Oh so you’re back to ignoring me, are you?”

Cora stiffened, turning back to the newly-minted Beta. “You got my sympathy when your brother was dead, but now that we know Dominic is alive, I don’t see any reason to pretend.” She answered with a shrug, trying to push away the memory of having the huge wolf’s arms around her. Of course, that was much easier said than done – her mind was already carrying her back to that emotional night, and it was nearly impossible to forget the way her heart had raced when he touched her.

Roger’s tears gradually slowed as Cora held him, breathing in her delicate scent and letting her gentle touch tame his rabid wolf. Soon his heaving breaths were low and steady, and Cora’s soothing murmurs fell quiet. It shouldn’t have been so electrifying – to hold a grieving man this way. But as the worst of the storm passed, the more intimate the embrace seemed, and suddenly Cora was so terribly aware of Roger’s powerful body flush against hers that she could scarcely breathe.

big wolf had been vicious and unhinged mere minutes before, Cora felt safe and content in the circle of his arms, and more alarming yet – she realized she didn’t want him to let go.

That was the last straw. As a doctor Cora was used to touching people constantly, and in the midst of the refugee crisis she’d done more than her fair-share of hand holding. But no one had ever blurred the lines of personal and professional this way, evoking deep emotions she should not be feeling – especially not for a man who infuriated her as much as Roger.

Cora extracted herself a bit too abruptly, but she attempted to cover her actions with a hasty cough.”You’d better let me take a look at your feet.” She suggested, glancing at the debris-strewn floor. The wolf’s blood mingled with the glass and splintered wood and Cora wasn’t sure how to even cross the wreckage, but Roger lifted her into his arms and carried her through the worst of it, ignoring her protests.

“What are you doing?!” She’d exclaimed, wriggling in his strong grip.

“My feet can’t get any more beat up than they already are – yours can.” He explained, hitching her closer.

“I’m wearing shoes!” Cora countered, rolling her eyes.

“Well you can’t ever be too careful.” Roger answered easily, though she thought she saw the corner of his mouth twitching. He carried her into the bathroom and reluctantly returned her feet to the ground, but he didn’t release her immediately. Instead he leaned her weight against him, as if worried she might not be steady without his support.

the hungry way he followed her with his dark eyes, or noticed the smirk which twisted his lips as he listened to her pounding heart and racing pulse.

Trying to still her shaking hands, Cora sprayed warm water over the wolf’s torn feet, wincing when she saw all the glass shards imbedded in his soles.

“How were you even standing?” She inquired.

“It helps that I’m very drunk.” Roger answered, his eyes locked on her lovely face. He was finding it very difficult to control himself with the beautiful human, especially given the way she’d stood up to him so courageously. He knew it must not have been easy for her, and though part of him was proud, her skittishness was thoroughly provoking his wolf’s prey drive.

Cora’s knees were weak, but the familiar motions of her work helped keep her on balance. She methodically extracted the glass from Roger’s feet with sharp tweezers, then cleaned and bound the wounds with careful precision. ‘There.” She said, wiping sweat from her brow, even though the temperature in the room was low. “You should stay off of those for the rest of the night.”

“But how will I get to my bed?” Roger inquired, arching a brow Cora didn’t like the sultry note in his deep voice, and she glanced in the direction of the bedroom. “I think you’ll find your bed is in pieces. I think maybe you should sleep in the tub.”

She rose to her feet, cleaning up her supplies, and Roger’s heart sank. He didn’t want her to leave, in part because he enjoyed her company far too much, but also because he simply didn’t want to be alone. Roger clamped his eyes shut, not wanting to remember the pain which drove him to wreak so much destruction. “I’m sorry for the way I behaved earlier.” He said, catching Cora’s hand before she could get away.

Cora frowned down at him. “I’ve seen worse.” She answered honestly, “But I think perhaps you shouldn’t be alone tonight.”

“Is that an invitation?” Roger questioned hopefully.

“My medical opinion.” Cora corrected. “The same I would give anyone in your state.”

“Everyone I care about is in the same condition – or thereabouts.” Roger lamented, feeling very sorry for himself. ‘They shouldn’t have to deal with me on top of everything else.”

Cora studied him closely. They were in an opulent palace with dozens of servants and guards. Finding someone to stay with the wolf wouldn’t be difficult – even arranging a new room for him would take little more than the wave of a hand. So why was she so tempted to offer her own company? Why didn’t she want to leave him? Why was she so bloody tempted to feel his touch again. “I could stay with you.” She blurted, before she could think better of it. “If you like.”

Roger blinked up at her, surprised but pleased beyond belief. “Really?”

“As long as you behave yourself and don’t get any wise ideas.” Cora answered, notching her chin up.

“I think we have plenty of proof that wise ideas aren’t my forte.” Roger replied, gesturing to the demolished suite.

“You can say that again.” Cora snorted, sweeping her gaze around. “But I’ll be damned if I’m going to spend the night in this death trap. I’ll ring downstairs to borrow a wheelchair and then you can come to my room.”

‘Thank you, Cora.” Roger squeezed her hand, but Cora pulled herself from his grip and crossed her arms over her chest. ‘You don’t know what this means to me.”

Cora’s cold expression wavered, a flash of genuine empathy bleeding into her features. Still, she didn’t let her guard down. “I mean it, Roger. No funny business.” She stalked away before he could reply, giving him a delightful view of her retreating backside.

“Ah, so that was just pity, was it?” Roger questioned, calling Cora back to the present.

‘That and my oath as a doctor,” she shrugged. “I couldn’t exactly leave you bleeding and practically suicidal.”

“U-huh, and I suppose you hold all your patients that way?” Roger pressed, closing the distance between them. He didn’t stop until he was towering over her, and the delectable scent he’d come to love spiked with adrenaline. “And let them sleep in your bed even though you insisted they stay on the couch?”

“Only the ones who are giant cry babies like you.” Cora bit, resting her hands on her hips

“Come on, admit it, Cora.” Roger purred, stroking a lock of hair back from her face. ’You’re warming up to me.”

“Don’t be ridiculous.” She insisted. “I showed you a bit of compassion in a time of need. That doesn’t mean I’ve forgotten your past crimes.”

‘You’re the only one who hasn’t.” Roger reminds her, sidling closer. “I’m not saying I deserve it, I just find it curious that you can’t move past things that your sister and my brother have forgiven. After all, they were the targets, not you.”

“All that means is that I hold a higher standard for my sister than she would for herself.” Cora argued, backing away until her shoulder blades collided with the door. She froze when she realized she was cornered, nervously licking her lips as Roger continued to prowl forward.

“I have a different theory.” Roger shared, resting his hands on either side of Cora’s head. “Would you like to hear it?”

Cora shook her head, not able to find her voice.

‘You like me.” Roger declared, enjoying the way her eyes dilated with surprise and anticipation. ‘You don’t want to, but you can’t help it. But instead of dealing with that fact, you’ve turned me into a monster.”

Anger and fear warred for dominance in Cora, even as heat pooled in her stomach. “I have news for you.” She hissed, fire blazing in her veins. “I didn’t have to turn you into anything. You helped Damon set this war into motion. You targeted my sweet, innocent, pregnant, sister because you couldn’t handle coming second to your brother. You’re trying to rewrite yourself as being deep and complicated and tortured, but all you truly are is a little boy with a fragile ego and major mommy issues.” Cora pushed at his burly shoulder, and Roger took a step back, eyeing her warily. “If I’d known you were going to twist things this way I never would have shown you the ounce of humanity I did. But let me be clear, I won’t be making that mistake again.”

Without another word Cora turned on her heel and stormed out. Roger listened to her pounding heart as she retreated down the hall, and though she didn’t know it, the sound stayed with him for the rest of the day, and well into the night.

Chapter 212 – Tattletales

Ella

“Four broken ribs.” The doctor assesses grimly, “and with all the exercise you’ve done since the initial brakes, they haven’t been able to set or heal. I have an injection I can give you to fuse the bones quickly, but it’s painful, and we still need to set them first.”

“What about his other injuries?” Henry inquires anxiously, seated on the other side of me.

“I’ll do a scan to assess the exact placement of his ribs, and I can extend it to the rest of his abdomen to rule out internal injuries. I don’t see anything else of concern.” The doctor shares with much more optimism.

“He’s got a good size lump on the back of his head.” I inform the physician, still running my hands through Sinclair’s hair.

‘Then you two will match.” Philippe interjects, reminding us all of the way I headbutted his chin in my attempts to reach Sinclair. “When you’re done with him, you ought to check her for a concussion.”

“I hardly think that’s necessary.” I complain, reaching back to see if the area is tender, then reflexively wincing when my fingers graze the swollen knot at the back of my skull.

“It is.” Five dominant voices assert, the loudest and most forceful coming from my lap. I send Roger, Henry, Philippe and Gabriel mutinous glances, much good that it does me.

“I was already planning on examining her.” The doctor relates, having the unbelievable nerve to look at Sinclair now, rather than me. “From the sounds of it she’s been much too active following her collapse.”

“What collapse?” Sinclair demands fiercely, his eyes pinning me with a suspicious glare. I turn my indignant gaze on the doctor now, but my mate catches my chin and returns my attention to him. “Don’t blame them for telling me what you should have told me yourself.”

“And when should I have done that?” I argue, feeling truly overwhelmed now. I can’t believe they’re all ganging up on me when Sinclair is injured and needs our attention most. “You’ve been back ten minutes and you’re in much worse shape than I am. Rafe and I are fine, you’re the one we need to worry about.”

“What happened, little wolf?” He asks, his voice gentle, for I’m sure he can sense my genuine distress.

Taking a deep breath, I force the words out in a rush, speaking as quickly as I can in the futile hope that he might not catch all the details. “It wasn’t a big deal. My blood pressure spiked when Gabriel’s drones found the wreckage from the bomb, that’s all. I passed out and they sedated me. I slept for three whole days, so I’m much better rested and healthy than you are.”

Sinclair’s pupils contract, and his irate gaze swings to the King. “You let her watch you search for the wreckage?”

Gabriel shifts uneasily from foot to foot. “Well, we didn’t know what we would find. Besides, Ella is the only reason we knew something had happened.”

“And did none of you consider the possibility that you would find us dead?” He sits up, power rolling off of him in heady waves, “It was sickening for me to see that scene and I’ve been in battle. What the hell were you thinking?” A flash of the gut-wrenching horror Sinclair felt when he woke from the bomb blast slips through our bond, and my wolf whimpers in my head. 1

“Dominic, it’s okay, come back to me.” I encourage, trying to guide his shoulders back down. He obeys, but I suspect he only does it to settle my wolf.

“It’s not okay.” Sinclair tells me, his voice like gravel. He reaches up to cup my cheek. “I’m sorry you had to see that.”

“It might have upset me, but it wasn’t enough to convince me you were gone.” I remind him, leaning down to kiss his pillowy lips, “My faith in our bond kept me from believing the worst.”

“So much so that she didn’t eat or bathe, or sleep again after she woke up.” Philippe offers, his arms crossed over his chest. “She just kept trying to escape.”

I tear my attention from Sinclair, truly outraged now. “Would you stop this?!” I exclaim, feeling as though I might scream. I’m so sick of my pack of overbearing babysitters that I could honestly throttle them.

And for once, I don’t give a single damn that they’re tattling on me, I care that they might further upset my mate when he’s already hurt and grieving. “Do you have any idea what he’s been through! He doesn’t need to be worrying about me right now. What is wrong with you all!?”

A tender purr begins to vibrate in my lap, and I can feel Sinclair’s wolf reaching out to mine. “Don’t be mad at them, baby.” Sinclair murmurs, sliding his hand to my nape and massaging my tense muscles. “I know you don’t like seeing me hurt, but they’re telling me exactly what I need to know – what I want to know.”

I shake my head defiantly. “No, you need to come first this time.” I reply thickly, wondering how they can all be so blind. “You almost died… you lost Hugo and your men.” 3

“And if I had died, they would have been doing exactly what I wished – taking care of you and Rafe when I couldn’t.” Sinclair croons.

“What, by being intrusive, overbearing bullies?” I sniff, hating the very suggestion of him truly being gone.

“Is that so different from me?” Sinclair asks with a crooked smile.

“Of course it is – because you’re my mate.” I reply fervently. ‘You’re only do it because you love me.”

“Well why the hell do you think it’s different with us, Ella?” Philippe grouses, pulling my attention away from my mate.

“Because Dominic would disembowel you if you let anything happen to me.” I answer easily, my wolf feeling a bloodthirsty thrill at the thought of our mate’s prowess.

Roger rolls his eyes, sarcasm heavy on his tongue. “Guess again genius.”

Gabriel clears his throat, diplomatically adding. “I think what Roger means is – why would we have to fear that if Dominic was dead? If that’s the only reason we were doing it, why did we continue when we thought he was gone?”

I look between them, slowly piecing together the clues. When the realization strikes, I turn to Sinclair for confirmation. Do they mean what I think they mean? I mean I know Henry is fond of me but…

“Of course they love you, Ella.” He says, assuaging my doubts and making me feel extremely guilty for giving them such a hard time.

“We’ve been trying to take care of you because we would be heartbroken if anything happened to you.” Henry contributes, “And that’s why we’re telling Dominic what’s been going on – because we want what’s best for you, and he’s the only one to whom you’ll truly respond.”

‘That and you won’t tell him yourself.” Roger mutters, but there’s only humor in his voice.

“Roger.” Henry bites, shooting the wolf a scowl before stealing one of my hands and squeezing it. “I’m sorry we didn’t listen to you, Ella. But I’m not sorry for the rest. We were doing the best with the information we had. But never doubt that we acted from a place of love.” 1

My lower lip quivers, and I stare up at the men apologetically. “I didn’t realize… I’m sorry.” I try to fight back my tears, but my hormones are unrelenting. I swear once this baby comes, I won’t cry again for a year. I vow to myself, wondering if this is a promise I can keep. The tears come all the same, but I try to keep my voice steady, “I mean, not for disobeying you or smashing you in the jaw,” I tell Philippe, who chuckles good-naturedly. ” But for misunderstanding… I assumed the worst, and that wasn’t fair to you.” It takes a moment to work myself up to the next part, but I manage. “I love you all too.”

One by one, the alphas return the sentiment, and Sinclair sends me a rush of affection which warms me inside and out. “Poor little mate, dealing with all these big mean wolves all on your own. It’s no

wonder you’re in such a state.” I can see Roger, Gabriel and Philippe making exasperated faces out of the corner of my eye, but I don’t care.

“It’s okay.” I tell him conspiratorially, not bothering to hide my devious grin. “I still got the better of them.”

‘That’s my girl.” Sinclair praises, pulling my head down for another kiss. It’s soft and tender, and with his pride and amusement, comes a rush of delicious dominance. “Just as long as you remember that you won’t be getting the better of me – even if I am weak and injured.”

My wolf shudders happily, and I kiss him again. “I still look forward to trying.”

His wolf gleams in his green eyes. “And I look forward to catching you.”

Chapter 213

After we make our amends, the doctor makes short work of his scans and treatments, even the terrible injections into Sinclair’s bones. Before long, my mate looks a thousand times better than he had when he arrived, and I’m still marveling at the Vanaran’s state of the art medicines. The physician checks the goose egg on the back of my head and takes my vitals, but Sinclair is so exhausted that he falls asleep right there in my lap. Philippe and Roger move to pick him up, but I beg them not to disturb him. Instead I wave them away so we can be alone, and Henry promises to have some food sent up to us.

Once the crowds are gone, there’s only my pup to wrangle. Now that things have calmed down again, he’s eager to take up his game with Sinclair again, kicking his tiny foot against the wall of my uterus, just on the other side of Sinclair’s cheek. Easy now, munchkin. I say through our bond.

Daddy needs to sleep.

I feel a wave of drowsiness from my womb, and send my support for the idea of a nap. That’s it, rest together, angel. Soon both of my boys are quiet, and I’m free to gaze down at Sinclair and marvel at his beauty and strength, even in slumber.

As overjoyed as I am, my heart also aches for my mate. Sinclair might not have said it or let me feel more than a hint of his grief, but I know he’s going to need as much support as I can give him after losing his Beta and friends. Part of me is still frustrated that the other alphas turned the focus onto me, though I understand they were doing what Sinclair preferred. He would never have been able to relax unless he knew the truth of my situation and appreciate that they helped him do that. But he’s going to need me when he wakes – even if it’s only to help him feel in control. I can’t let him be distracted by my needs.

I run featherlight fingers over his stubbly jaw as he dozes, wondering if any she-wolf has ever loved her mate more than I love this man. What would I do without you, Dominic? I think reverently. I might be able to survive losing you, but I wouldn’t want to. There will never be anyone for me but you.

Not for the first time, I wish I could fantasize about our future without worrying about the war ahead. But it looms too large in my consciousness to overlook, and a new determination takes hold in my heart. We have to get through this. I’m going to do whatever it takes to make sure our family stays whole and overcomes the battles ahead. I fall asleep stroking his hair and pondering the daunting possibilities, so happy to be reunited with him that I don’t even feel my exhaustion until it has pulled me under.

I wake a while later, to the sensation of a gentle finger tracing the bridge of my nose. When my lashes part I find Sinclair gazing lovingly down at me, his emerald eyes like liquid in the dusky evening light. “I’m sorry to wake you, baby. I just thought you might like to have a bath with me?”

I’m still very drowsy, but as soon as the words are out of his mouth, I realize how disgusting I feel. With four days of accumulated dirt on my skin, I’m amazed I don’t spell like hot garbage. I nod sleepily, and before I can say a word to stop him, he scoops me up into his arms. As he carries me to the bathroom, I notice an abundance of room service cloches waiting on the table, and my stomach growls loudly in protest. Sinclair chuckles. “Don’t worry trouble, I’ll bring you some snacks.” 2

He’s as good as his word, depositing me in the swirling bubbles and delivering a plate full of my favorite dishes to the wide rim of the tub. The gears of my mind are turning much too slowly, but I spy a bacon- wrapped fig and can’t focus on anything else until it’s in my mouth. Gradually I realize that the plate only bears enough for one, and none of the delicacies are Sinclair’s preferences. “What about you?”

“Are you worrying about me, little wolf?” Sinclair asks, a knowing look in his eye.

“You need to eat even more than I do, and I know your father didn’t only send my favorites.” I answer, trying to look imposing so that he’ll take me seriously. Of course, this is difficult when I’m still only half

awake.

Sinclair kneels down in front of me, his mouth quirking upwards, “To be honest, I was so starving that I ate before I woke you.”

“Oh.” I breathe, disappointed but struggling to remember why I should feel this way.

Sinclair chuckles, “don’t look so sad, in fact you should be glad you missed it – have you ever seen the appetite of a wolf who’s been running for four days straight? It isn’t pretty.” He rumbles “I had to take a shower just to wash off the culinary carnage.”

I giggle half-heartedly, my thoughts finally clicking into place. “I’m not sad,” I correct him. “But I am worried about you, and I want to help you.”

“You are helping me.” Sinclair replies, sinking into the steaming water and pulling me into his arms with a low rumble.

“How?” I demand, “by letting you carry me around and pampering me?”

“I happen to like doing those things.” He answers, kissing my neck.” Besides, this way my hands are free.”

“Oh, going to grope me while I eat?” I inquire saucily, reaching for the plate.

“No, actually I thought I’d feed you.” Sinclair corrects me, intercepting my hand. A moment later he dangles a second fig over my head, tempting me terribly. It smells absolutely divine, and as much as I’d like to resist, my stomach is growling demands again. It seems my first bite woke a monster, and now I’m ravenous. I close my lips around the morsel, nipping Sinclairs fingers for good measure. Just you wait, Mr. I say through our bond, trying to smother a delighted moan as the flavors explode over my tongue. As soon as I’m full these tables are turning and you’re going to let me indulge you.

Is that so? Sinclair counters, arching one dark brow in warning. Clearly I’ve been gone too long, if you’re already so eager to challenge me.

Not challenge you, just make you prioritize yourself instead of me. I clarify, taking a bite of the sumptuous tart my mate is currently holding to my lips.

He chuckles, offering me the tart again. I lean forward to accept it, but just as I’m poised to take another bite, Sinclair replaces it with his lips. Silly mate, don’t you know that’s one in the same.

I whimper as he devours me, suddenly wondering why I’m so determined to argue when this incredible man is intent on wining and dining me. A moment later, I realize his own wolf is silently putting these very suggestions in my head, and I wrench myself away from him. ‘That’s cheating.” I accuse, narrowing my eyes at the sly wolf.

“I know.” He sympathizes, catching my nape and pulling my mouth back to his, “I’m a bad, bad man.” For a few delicious moment, I let him kiss me senseless, heat pooling in my core as my wolf grows increasingly eager to reunite with her mate in the most intimate and sacred manner.

Eventually I return to my senses and wrench myself away. “Dominic!” I complain, pushing my lips into a pout and crossing my arms over my breasts.

Sinclair flashes his fangs, his hungry gaze glued to my mouth. “You better put that pout away unless you want to get bitten, gorgeous.”

I purse my lips, glowering, but when I try to speak he presses more food onto me, and I have no choice but to accept the offering. I moan as a delectable, warm mouthful of rare steak rolls over my tastebuds, and my lashes fall shut as I swallow the bite. When they part again, I find my mate waiting with another bite, but I don’t trust that he’ll actually feed me rather than stealing another kiss. When Sinclair sees my

uncertainty, he purrs with satisfaction, and I realize he intended on throwing me off balance in precisely this way.

The uncooperative Alpha doesn’t seem to care that I only want to take care of him, he’s enjoying teasing me, overturning all my best laid plans. At a loss, I try to scramble off of his lap, but his arms lock around me, “And just where do you think you’re going?” He rumbles ominously, eyes glowing.

I squirm helplessly, unable to decide whether I’m hungry, turned on, or angry with my mate. I glare up at him, and the fire in his eyes sparks hotter. Stop fighting me, little wolf. My mate’s inner animal speaks directly through our bond, reaching out to my own wolf, calling to her instincts. This is what I need. I know you want to take care of me, this is me telling you how you can. Just let go, and trust me.

My body goes still, and my lips part on another silent gasp. Suddenly I feel like a fool – his playful behavior wasn’t teasing at all, it was simply Sinclair showing me what he needed from me, and I’ve been too preoccupied trying to give him what I thought he should have, rather than listening. He doesn’t need cuddling and pampering. He needs to feel in control, because everything is spinning out of control – only I can give him that.

‘There.” He croons, taking me cheek in his hand, “now you see.”

I nod, leaning into him for another kiss. Instead he places more steak on my tongue, shaking his head with that same ravenous expression. His message is clear: he makes the rules, and I hang on for the ride.

Chapter 214

We don’t spend very long in the bath.

As soon as I’m fed and clean, Sinclair takes me to my nest and lays me out like his own personal feast, and he wastes no time in ravishing me.

I’ve never been frightened of Sinclair. Not at his wildest or grouchiest, not even when he’s on the warpath against others, or assailing me with the full force of his magic. If anything, it’s been an incredible turn on to know that I can call such a powerful man my own, that I’m the sole soft spot in his impenetrable armor.

But when he makes love to me now, I feel afraid. Not for myself – never that – but for the feral energy I can sense swirling through his body. His wolf is in full control and he’s near rabid with desire – ruthless in his affection. He isn’t gentle, nor would I ask him to be. I love his rough passion and savage intensity: the way he makes me feel as if I’m the only woman in the world and he’ll die if he doesn’t have me this instant; the way he drives into me with reckless abandon and earth-shattering skill, drawing sounds I didn’t even know I was capable of making from my mouth before he greedily swallows them with his tongue.

Still, there’s a dark edge to his carnal hunger, as if it’s not just sensual release he seeks, but absolution. The dominance he exerted earlier is nothing compared to the chaotic power fueling him now, and while I might not understand everything behind his actions, I realize that as much as he wants me, he’s also hurting. I’m seeing the results of everything he’s pent up over the last few days, and my wolf is only too eager to submit, to give him whatever solace we can, for however long he needs it.

So I give myself to him completely, letting him claim me over and over again, and trying to survive the endless onslaught of pleasure he delivers. At some point it becomes too much, and my vision blacks out as I crest the peak of yet another orgasm. I don’t fight the darkness, because I know I’m safe in my mate’s arms at long last.

I’m alone when I wake, and instantly I fear Sinclair’s return was all a dream.

I jerk up in my nest, my wolf whimpering as I scan the room. However, almost as soon as the sound leaves my lips, a soft purr rises to meet it, and I shift my worried gaze to follow the comforting rumble. Sinclair stands on the terrace looking out on the sleeping city, but now he turns and strides back to the bed, “It’s okay, Ella. I’m here.” He assures me, wrapping me up in his strong arms.

I cling to him with all my strength, unable to form words just yet. My heart feels as though it just took a plunge off a high dive, without knowing if there was any water waiting to break my fall. Luckily there was, but my pulse is still racing with the fright. Sinclair strokes my spine and kisses my hair, murmuring sweet nothings in my ear. It takes me longer than it should to calm down, but my wolf is seriously on edge after this last week.

“What were you doing?” I finally ask, unable to keep a petulant note from my voice, my inner animal thoroughly affronted that he scared me this way.

“I was just thinking.” Sinclair answers, his warm breath fluttering over my ear. “I haven’t had a moment to stop since the explosion – I’ve been so focused on getting home. But now I’m here, everything is hitting me at once.” As soon as he says it, he opens the gates and lets the emotion pour through our bond. I’m thankful that he doesn’t try to hide his pain from me, but the force of it is staggering. Not only grief for Hugo and his men, but confusion and guilt over how he survived when they did not. More than anything else, I sense a deep well of helplessness, brought on by his inability to protect the people he loves in all this chaos.

I hold him tighter, ‘They were good men.” I tell him softly. ‘They loved you, they would have been happy you survived even if they didn’t.”

“But they shouldn’t have had to die.” Sinclair replies thickly, burying his head in my neck and breathing in my scent. “We didn’t even see the attack coming. We don’t know how Damon managed it, or where the bomber is now.” He doesn’t say it, but I can sense how badly this grates on his nerves. One more thing he can’t control, one more tragedy piling onto his conscience. “I’m so sick of this war, and it’s hardly even begun.”

“I know.” I say honestly. “And I know how badly you want to fix all this, how agonizing it’s been for you to see your people suffering. Please just remember that you’re not in this alone, Dominic. You don’t have to have all the answers. Your family, your pack – we all love you and we’re in this together.” I remind him, hoping the words don’t sound hollow to a man who has the weight of the whole world on his shoulders. “We’re all mourning for Hugo, for every wolf in those cars. Don’t let our relief that you’re okay make it seem otherwise, because we all lost a great deal in that accident. We’ll make sure they didn’t die in vain. We’re going to get through this.”

‘Thank you, baby.” Sinclair sighs, his salty tears feeling hot on my skin.”I really needed to hearthat.”

I nod, still a bit afraid to trust that he’s truly here, while also hating that his homecoming carries such heartache. “I would have told you sooner if those bullies had let me come after you.” I quip, only half joking.

“Mmm,” Sinclair rumbles appreciatively. “And I suppose that’s the only reason you were so determined to come after me? Because you knew I needed comfort?”

I’m suddenly very glad he can’t see my face. “Not entirely.”

“What else?” Sinclair asks, pulling back to look down at me and, as usual, filling me with the sensation that he can see straight through me.

I shrug and lean my cheek against his shoulder, wishing we didn’t have to have this conversation, but knowing he won’t rest until we do.

“Come on trouble, talk to me.” Sinclair encourages. “You kept saying you knew I was okay after the attack, but that’s not the way it sounds.” He sighs, petting my sides. ’You collapsed. You’ve been neglecting your health, and cutting yourself off from the baby? None of that seems hopeful.”

“I said I knew you were alive. But I didn’t know you were okay…” I correct him, staring at my lap. “And everyone was telling me I was just in denial. I was afraid to sleep because it might prove them right if you didn’t turn up… and I think I was so desperate to come after you because I needed to prove them wrong. I needed to know I wasn’t just blindly hoping. The truth is that I was terrified.” I confess shakily. ‘You don’t realize what you’ve done to me, Dominic.”

Sinclair takes my face in his hands, his thumbs brushing away rogue tears as they slip down my cheeks. “What have I done, baby?” 1

The concern on his face nearly topples me over, but I manage to stay upright – if only because I need to reassure him. “Before I met you, all I ever wanted was a baby. That’s it.” I explain, still amazed by how quickly everything has changed. “I would have loved a partner, but you saw what I was willing to settle for with Mike.” My mate growls at the sound of the human’s name, and as much as I want to smile, I can’t. The confession I’m about to make is too grave, too terrifying when our lives are so precarious.

“But you ruined all that.. you made my old dreams not enough anymore.” I share, searching his emerald gaze for understanding. “You opened my eyes to worlds I didn’t know existed, a kind of love I never dreamed I might have. You spoiled me… spoiled me for anyone else, nothing but you will ever be enough for me now.” The worry dissipates from Sinclair’s gaze, and he watches me with such tenderness that my wolf melts into a puddle. “I can’t lose you, Dominic. I love this baby with every fiber

of my being, but I need you too. I don’t want to go back to the way things were – living a half life and convincing myself it was enough because I didn’t know any better.”

‘You’re not going to lose me, sweetheart.” Sinclair promises, and I can tell he believes it, even though this isn’t something in our power.

‘You don’t know that.” I reply, thinking of Isabel, or Henry and all the people who have lost mates. “Look at what has already happened.”

“Exactly.” Sinclair purrs. “Look at what we’ve already survived, look at the forces that have tried to keep us apart and failed. What can’t we do?”

I furrow my brow. “But-” I want to say that this is all still beginning, we still have the summit ahead of us, and who knows what other challenges. But I don’t get the chance.

Sinclair’s finger comes over my lips, “no buts, no what ifs. You’re my destiny, Ella. I’m not going to let anything come between us.

Chapter 215

Morning comes much too soon. My body is sore and aching, but I’m much calmer now that I’ve let off some steam with my mate. The last thing I want to do is leave our suite and deal with the fallout of last week’s drama, but there is much to be done before the summit.

I begin with a visit to the families of the men I lost in the bombing, starting with Aileen. I give her my oath to find the men responsible for the attack, knowing my words are an empty comfort in the face of a life without her mate. These visits nearly break me, as I’ve yet to truly begin grieving myself. In fact I don’t even make it five minutes before regretting my orders for Ella to stay in bed and rest. She is the only thing that could possibly calm my wolf right now, and I dearly want to return to her side. I still hope to steal some time alone with her this afternoon – a final reprieve before the entire continent descends on us – but that will only be possible if I finish my to-do list.

Next I go to the airfield, needing to see the situation for myself. I’m astounded to see how large the refugee camp has grown in my absence, even with the families Gabriel has housed in the city. Though each of the shifters I meet is grappling with profound personal loss, they’re no less thrilled to see me alive and well. Their warmth and relief is a welcome balm, and I carry it with me into my meetings with the King’s security services.

The enforcers assure me that everything is ready for the summit, and that security will be the strictest the capital has ever seen, but that’s where the good news ends. So far, there are no leads on the bomber, and when I explain my miraculous survival to the assembled wolves, they can only exchange befuddled looks and remark that the Goddess must have been looking out for me. I don’t understand it myself, and even though Ella has proved just how present divine forces are in our lives, it’s beyond

surreal to think that the Goddess might have saved me. Even so, I’m much more concerned with discovering Damon’s allies in Vanara, but I don’t find the answers I’m seeking in the security offices.

I leave, brooding as I check another task off my list. By the time I reach the palace library I don’t have any more clarity about who might have carried out the attack, and I’m at a loss for what to do. Thankfully Roger is already there waiting for me, and he greets me with an uncharacteristic hug. I return it enthusiastically, wondering when we last showed each other such affection – if ever.

“I don’t know what to make of it.” I tell him, quickly bringing him up to speed on the situation. “Obviously Damon orchestrated it, but how? Who is he working with? Is it one of the alphas here? Are there counter forces working against us right under our very nose? Did he somehow figure out a way to send people to Vanara?” i

Roger frowns, his mouth twisting into a grimace. I wait for him to speak, but I can sense his reluctance. “What?”

“Well,” he winces, “it could be one of the refugees.”

I take a step back, stunned he could suggest such a thing. “I refuse to believe that.” I argue, shaking my head. “You’ve been to the camp – you’ve seen what they’ve been through. No one there would help Damon.”

“I’m not saying it would be a true refugee – but someone impersonating one.” Roger amends, holding his hands up defensively. “And I don’t necessarily think that’s the case, I’m simply saying that there’s only one way off the continent right now. So if Damon did send someone here, it might have been on one of the evacuation flights.”

“If Damon found out about the flights and discovered the meeting point, he would just kill all of the refugees.” I argue, not adding that I’ve been terrified of this very eventuality for weeks, 1

“Maybe,” Roger agrees. “Or maybe he’d use the opportunity to send spies or assassins. You know? Find out where we are and what we’re doing.”

I smother a growl, hating this possibility but appreciating that he’s thinking strategically. ‘You need to be very careful who you say that in front of.” I warn gruffly. “That is the kind of idea that can spread panic and turn the locals against our people.”

“I know that.” Roger admits, “I don’t like it any more than you do. I’m just trying to think of every possibility.”

I grip his shoulder, “I appreciate that, and I’m going to need you to keep thinking that way if we’re going to get through this.”

“Of course I will.” Roger vows, though his frown only deepens. “The real question is going to be how we investigate this without letting the public know our suspicions.”

“Well, that can be your number one priority,” I reply, watching him closely as I continue. “As my new Beta.”

Roger blinks, doing a double take as if he’s unsure he heard me correctly.” What did you just say?”

Taking a deep breath, I explain.”! wouldn’t normally try to appoint a replacement for Hugo so soon after his death,” I confess, feeling a stab of guilt for even suggesting this when his loss is so fresh. “And I know it’s a lot to ask when you spent your life dreaming of being Alpha, but I need a second in command and I… well, I want it to be you. It should be you.”

Roger drops his gaze to the floor, a sober expression on his face. “I lost any interest in being Alpha the moment I thought you were dead.” He shares grimly, his voice like gravel. “It was the closest I’d ever come to leading, and it’s the closest I ever want to be. My personal glory isn’t worth losing you – nothing is. You have no idea how desperately I prayed to have you back.”

I feel a deep pang in my chest, undone by the vestiges of pain still haunting my brother’s features. ‘Well now I am back, and I need someone I can trust by my side.” I take him by the shoulders, encouraging him to look me in the eye. “Who better to watch my back than my big brother?”

‘That’s easier said than done.” Roger counters uncertainly. “Betas are supposed to balance their Alphas, not antagonize them.”

‘They are…” I confirm with a grin. “Do you think you can manage it?”

‘That depends,” Roger quips, “how big of an ass do you plan on being?”

“No bigger than usual.” I laugh, offering him my hand. “So are you up for it, or are you going to make me ask Philippe?”

He exhales dramatically, “And leave Ella without a guard? What am I, a monster?”

“I know.” I grimace, thinking of all the soldiers I already have to replace. “At this rate my men are dropping like flies. I don’t think I can handle losing anyone else.”

Roger slides his hand into mine, squeezing with his full strength. “I won’t let you down, Dominic. I’m going to find the people responsible for the bomb if it’s the last thing I do”

“I know.” I assure him, pulling the stubborn oaf into a hug. “I trust you, brother.”

He chuckles, thumping my back with his fist. “Just wait until we tell, Dad. The old man is going to absolutely blubber.”

He’s not wrong, and I’m already looking forward to sharing the news with our father. Still, my to-do list isn’t complete yet, and the scent of my mate’s adoptive sister tells me I’m behind schedule. When we part I see Cora leaning in the library doorway, watching us warily.

‘You rang?” She inquires, keeping her attention focused entirely on me. She doesn’t even afford Roger a glance, and I realize that the burgeoning attraction between the pair hasn’t progressed well in my absence. I’ll have to ask him about it later, because right now my brother looks as though he’s forgotten I’m here. He’s staring at Cora with open hunger, and it seems to take him a minute to process her words.

“You did?” Roger questions eventually, looking at me when the information clicks.

‘Yes, I need your help with something – if you’re willing to lend it.” I amend hopefully. “Just before the attack, I realized that Ella and I never got the chance to throw a mating ceremony after our secret came out.” I reveal, marveling about how much has changed in such a short time. “We’ve celebrated becoming mates in private, but we never had the chance to celebrate it with our loved ones, and I don’t want to put it off any longer. I’d like to surprise Ella with a ceremony on the last night of the summit – before the ball. What do you think?”

Cora’s face splits into a wide smile,”I think that’s a wonderful idea. She’ll love it.”

‘Then you’ll help?” I ask.

“Of course,” Cora agrees.

I glance between her and Roger, not sure the human realizes the full implications of my request. “And you think you’ll be able to work together?”

Cora’s freezes, her eyes swinging to Roger. My brother grins, flashing his fangs, and I can sense Cora forcing down an indignant protest. Instead she plasters a smile onto her features, and forces her next words out through clenched teeth, “I can’t see why not.”

I’m not sure who’s more pleased, me or my brother. “Perfect.”

Chapter 216

Before her hand could touch the door knob however, Roger’s voice stopped her in her tracks. “Oh so you’re back to ignoring me, are you?”

She felt as though his hands were scalding her through her clothes, and his warm breath fluttering over her neck roused butterflies in her stomach. Gooseflesh rose on her arms as he emitted a soft rumble of appreciation for her comfort, and Cora wondered why her mouth suddenly felt so dry. Even though the big wolf had been vicious and unhinged mere minutes before, Cora felt safe and content in the circle of his arms, and more alarming yet – she realized she didn’t want him to let go.

“What are you doing?!” She’d exclaimed, wriggling in his strong grip.

“My feet can’t get any more beat up than they already are – yours can.” He explained, hitching her closer.

“I’m wearing shoes!” Cora countered, rolling her eyes.

Cora pulled away, becoming increasingly flustered. “Have a seat.” She instructed, searching through the cabinets and extracting first aid supplies. Roger settled on the edge of the bath and patiently waited for her to finish her search. If she’d felt brave enough to look over at the wolf, Cora would have seen the hungry way he followed her with his dark eyes, or noticed the smirk which twisted his lips as he listened to her pounding heart and racing pulse.