Ch. 251..260

Chapter 251

If I thought the dress my dishonest friends designed on my back was dazzling on the hanger, it’s nothing compared to the way it looks on me. I’ve never seen anything like it. The pearly fabric hugs my curves, the cleavage plunging between my breasts and thin straps leaving my back and flanks almost completely bare. The skirt ripples in a cascade of shiny chiffon, with a modest tail flowing behind of me as I walk.

Of course, my threat to spoil my makeup with tears is soon fulfilled when my eyes they fill with tears and I reach out to Cora and Elizabeth, babbling thanks and declarations of love for both . Then calm me down for a few minutes, before my sister puts her down .

“Enough.” Cora says after my third outpouring of thanks, ” no let’s waste all this beauty on us. Your companion is waiting. ”

My heart is pounding as we leave the suite, and I stroke itmy belly amazed. Your daddy did it again, I tell my puppy. Be sure to pay close attention to his romantic instincts as he grows up and simply ignore it Mom’s . YouI definitely want to follow your example when it’s time to choose a mate. Even as I think about the words, I realize how deeply I believe in them. I couldn’t ask for a better example for my son, and I almost start crying again just thinking about thekind of man we’re going to raise together.

I don’t even care about walking into the unknown anymore, not when I know Sinclair is pulling the strings behind it all . I lift my skirts as we leave my room, smiling insanely at the white heels lace peeking beneath my belly._I expected Cora and Isabel to take me to the ballroom, instead I I found myself following them towards the palace gardens, my breath gasping for breath as we approached . When the balcony doors open, I have a moment of startled panic when I fear that my kneescan really give up – and the last thing I want to do is fall off ass before even taking a step down the hall.

Still , if anyone is to blame for my vertigo, it’s surely the palace elves who are working their magic to create the scene before we . It must have taken days, but I managed to lose everything. _ _ _ _ _ the neatly landscaped flower beds and familial topiaries carved were concealed by a vision directly from a fairy tale. An enchanted forest spreads out where once there was only a labyrinth of hedges, shrouded in fairy lights and wildflowers. Lanterns cast bright amber light upon the petal—path scattered at my feet, which descends into an arch of tall trees. And in the center , of the

All the Alpha delegations , the Vanaran courtiers and dozens and dozens of refugees became lined up in the spaces between the trees. _ _ I feel your manifestation of support and affection as a tangible hug, and I I can only laugh and smile with incandescent happiness. The nursery puppies are all dressed in formal dresses and small tuxedos, and Isabel leads them down the hallway as they scatter more flower petals whenever they can.

Ethereal music floats in the air, though I can’t decipher its origin . As the music changes, my sister turns to me. ” Are you ready? She asks, cackling and wiping away a tear that escaped my cheek. “Are you handing me over? ” I sob, wondering how I can stay serene enough to through my vows .

“Of course not. ” Cora laughs. “That’s a human tradition. Wolves believe that nothing can break family ties, and finding your mate certainly can’t it means giving up on your family. I’m just here to show you the way. ”

“What if I want you to walk with me? ” I ask, feeling – I am strangely vulnerable. It’s not like Sinclair hasn’t already claimed me, or that this is changing anything . However, at the same time, I can’t help but feel the magnitude of this ceremony . Maybe it has something to do with the fact that we’ve been through so much time of our relationship stuck to secrets, and now everything is open . _ _ _ Maybe it’s because dedicating ourselves to each other in particular feels so intimate and meaningful, but to do so before the whole world confers a inevitable gravity to the case . Maybe it’s simply the visceral magic in the air, like an electric current pulsing around us and within us – in a way that makes me wonder if the Goddess can be looked at for us right now. _

“Well, only a monster would refuse such a request. Cora smiles, moving – moving to my side and wrapping her arm around mine. ” I’ve got you, little sister.” _

My vision blurs and I look at my sister with trembling lips , “I Love You”.

Cora lowers her forehead, resting it against mine and swallowing mein his chocolate gaze. “I love you too. “A wave of Alpha power hits us as we take this moment, and I understand that my companion is feeling impatient..

“We’d better go. “Cora laughs,” before he comes here and decides accompany him personally. As we begin our descent , Sinclair’s expression goes from devotion to voracious and possessive, then comes back again at least three times. I can’t take my eyes off him, and I can feel his passion for me so intensely how much I feel my own desire.

I am amazed to feel so much joy as the war progresses, when we still have so many challenges ahead and we will part ways in a matter of days. _ _ _ And yet I am. I feel like we’ve stolen a moment in time – like this night and the celebration of our love would go on forever – even if only in our hearts. And I suppose so, because no matter what happens in the future, always We’ll have that moment together. _ _ we will always be _able to look back and remember, from Find constrength and consolation in our scandalous joy. It’s an amazing gift, and I want nothing more than to savor every second.

I think Sinclair can feel the direction of my thoughts, both that his patience finally ran out. He walks to greet us at the end of the tree-lined path, pure love radiating from his pretty face. _

“You built a forest for me. I say foolishly, smiling at him. He knows how much I missed the landscape of our homelands, how desperately my animal interior fought in Vanara.

” I would build a thousand if I could, little wolf” He tells me reverently , caressing my cheek. _ _

I shook my head, fighting back tears. “I don’t know what I did to deserve you. ” _

“Well, it helps that you’re the sweetest creature that has ever walked the earth. ” Sinclair jokes. “It is only right that you be rewarded with my perfection. ”

I can’t help but laugh, knowing how critically my companion sees himself. “At least you’re finally starting to recognize how wonderful you are. I joke in response, leaning in to kiss him.

“Oh – ah,” he scolds, “not yet , problem. We have to do the ceremony first. ” _

“Are you really going to make me wait? “I pout, looking as miserable as possible.

He chuckles warmly, giving me a final squeeze before situating us to finish the procession . ” Trust me, mate , it’ll be worth it. Sinclair’s arm snakes around me in a protective cage as we continue over the tender grass . Cora is gone ahead, and is now standing next to Isabel in the altar .

When we finally reach the end of the hallway, we say our vows under the full moon and the stars, reaffirming our commitment to love and value each other for the rest of our days . – Part of me wants to complain that Sinclair had time to write _and essay_your speech, but when I open my mouth the words come on their own own .

“Dominic, until you found me , I didn’t even know I was lost . I start, looking into his bright green eyes. _ _ ” I thought I knew who I was and what I wanted out of life… I thought I was at the end _ _ _of a Chapter , until you me showed that it was only the beginning. I pause to try and steady my trembling voice. “When I was young, I dreamed of a life free of fear. But now I see that such an existence must also be __free of meaning_– Because there can only be fear if we have nothing to lose. _ _ Now, there are a lot of things I haven’t worried about since I met you . I don’t mind losing my way, because I know you’ll always find me— even in my dreams… I don’t mind being hurt, because I know you’ll protect me as you can , and share my pain when it can’t be avoided. I don’t even mind facing the unknown, because no matter where life takes me , I I know as long as you’re there, that’s where I’m supposed to be. _ _ _ _ ” 1

“But I’m also terrified, because of how much you’ve given me. How much you and this puppy have added to my life. I never knew it was possible to be so happy by being afraid, but I am . “I sob. _ _ _ _ _ I’m so thrilled to have so much to lose, and I promise never to take a single moment with you for granted. I may be scared, but I know deep in my soul that it doesn’t matter what challenges may separate us, we will always find _ _ _our way back one towards the other . I take a deep breath once more, gathering strength to the finalization . “You may be my destiny, but you are also my choice. I swear to always do everything in my power to make your life so full and glorious as you made mine ; to always love and support him, share his burdens and ease them whenever you can. I promise to be a true partner and friend in good times and bad , and in any titles I may win in the future, be _Luna, Queen , or even Empress – the only one who matters to me, is companion . ”

“My Ella,” Sinclair purrs in response, holding my cheek on his excessively large hand. ” You’re not the only one who’s gotten lost, little wolf.And you’re not the only one who’s scared . Every day I wake up in fear of the Last few months have been a dream miraculous And, as much as I desperately pray to be wrong , I’d rather dream of you for a thousand years than to live without you. “Your wolf blinks behind your eyes, and I know he speaks the truth. “But you’re better than any dream, Ella. So much so that at Sometimes I find it hard to believe that you’re real— not because you don’t have flaws or not. have flaws, not because I have mistaken you for a fantasy – but because you makes the fantasies that Ionce held for a mate sound shallow and empty in comparison . ” Sinclair admits with a wry smile. “When I was a boy, I imagined that love was one-dimensional , that it was only sunshine , rainbow – iris and destiny . _ thought I wanted _nothing more than passion and adventure, preferably with someone handsome and intelligent. ” He reveals shyly.

“But life isn’t one-dimensional, and now I know I don’t just want to passion, I also want compassion. I don’t just want adventure, I want an anchor to keep me anchored in the seas more stormy and remind me _ _ _ _ _ of what is truly important in life … I don’t just want intelligence, I want friendship and support. And as far as beauty is concerned , I much prefer good humor and a brave spirit . Sinclair continues, his voice hoarse. “You are all that, and more—my greatest weakness and my greatest

strength. I am a much better man with you, than without you , and you make the worst moments of my life a blessing – because at least if I am fighting, I’m fighting with you. So, I swear to honor you and protect you forever. I promise to keep growing and learning, to always be by your side and for our puppies . I swear I’ll _always find you) , no matter how much distance is between us , or what trials we face. “I swear each kiss will be filled with more love than the last,” and that our days together will only grow in love and devotion. ”

We’re kissing before anyone can declare our full vows, and when Sinclair finally sinks his fangs into my neck, a deafening joy ascends to the heavens. The stars themselves begin to fall, triggering a wave of oohs and ahs from the crowd as they they look up at the sky.sky. I can’t drag myself away from my mate to look, but everyone seem to come to the same conclusion as Sinclair and I remain locked in the shelter of arms from each other – the Goddess is looking at us, after all.

 

Chapter 252

“Do we have to stay too long? I ask Sinclair, snuggling up to him. ” We’ve just finished the wedding party and the party is moving to the ballroom. The orchestra warms up in the distance, and the guests slowly shrink to outside the great hall, attracted by the promise of dancing.

” I think we have to stay until the opening dance, at least . He retorts, kissing my forehead as his fingers trace circles on my thigh. “I may have hijacked this event, but it’s still part of the summit. Why? ” He asks, sliding his wolf eyes to my flushed face, ” Is there anything you’d rather be doing, little wolf? “.

I shoot him a grumpy look , “you know exactly what I do.” I want to do it, Dominic. ”

Sinclair adopts a look of confusion, which my wolf doesn’t believe not for a second. ” I’m sure not. “He lies—the rat! “Do you want to go for a run? ” _ _

The offer is surprisingly tempting. It’s been almost a week since I last let go of my she-wolf, and she carries the weight of my belly with far more grace than I do. I would give a lot for the freedom to run and play as easily as __her_ yes , and I have a feeling that the nostalgia will only increase with the course of the pregnancy . Still , I don’t let my companion distract me: “No. I have a very different activity in mind.”

“Well, you know all you have to do is ask, honey . ” Sinclair states in a gravel voice, which betrays his own desire. “Tell me what you need and I’ll give it to you. ”

I fight a groan. He knows I can’t ask for these things in public, it’s hard enough to talk those words in the privacy of our bedroom. “My cunning wolf wants to do it anyway , use his own dirty trick against him, _speaking our desires_ and leaving his own animal Inside so angry that he will be forced to drag us along like a caveman . Unfortunately, my timid sensibilities and preoccupation with political optics prevail over it, so I can only nibble on my cake and pout while Sinclair murmurs promises in my ear.

” Soon, problems. ” He calms down, his hot breath vibrating over my skin, ” I’m so Eager to take her to bed as much as you, we just have to be patient . ”

Reluctantly, I allow Sinclair to lead me to the ballroom, where we receive the honor of the first dance — both as hosts of the gathering and as a newlywed couple ‘ . Sinclair spins me across the dance floor in his arms, and I avoid becoming dizzy looking into her beautiful eyes. _

I thought I’d want to give up after a dance, but once we’re in the moving, I remember how fun it is to spin this way, feeling lighter than the air . Only when my feet start screaming in protest does my companion immobilize me with one of the his burning looks that tell me he can see through me, “As they are those feet, problem? ”

“It depends, if I say they’re hurting, you’ll tell me.carry to our room and rub them for me? I ask, tapping my eyelashes.

“We’re almost there, baby. ” He promises, taking me to the opulent seats in the front of the room . – Just one more toast and then we can get away. _ ”

He guides me to one of the chairs and grabs a glass of champagne. Someone slams a knife into his own glass, and a gradual silence falls over the room . “First of all, I have to thank everyone who helped plan tonight . OneA huge amount of work was required to gather this summit and this ball, even before I decided to make everyone’s job much harder by adding a mating ceremony to the mixture . My lovely fiancée Ella was up day and night making sure everything was perfect, as well as hundreds of planners, coordinators, florists , chefs and Palace staff. “He keeps raising the glass ,” for my brother, my sister-in-law, and our friend Elizabeth, you were instrumental in transforming the night and _ _ _ _helping -me to surprise my companion, and I am extremely grateful to all of you . ” He continues to descend less, seeming to fear leaving out a single person from your thank you list .

Only after finishing the compliments does he turn his attention to the Summit delegations . “As some of you may know, we were extremely excited to reach an agreement of summit last night. I am thrilled to announce that we will be forgingan alliance with the bands of Vanaran in the war against Emperor Damon, and we are moving very quickly in view of the urgent situation . I cannot express the size of my respect and appreciation for all the delegations present here , as well as for its people across the continent – its support and Loyalty is a gift we will never be able to repay, and I am proud from be with all of you. ”

Bursts of excited murmurs throughout the room, as many of the courtiers and refugees are learning this information for the first time . I look around at the crowd, watching as new hope and anticipation fills their faces assorted . Sinclair is still talking, describing the challenges ahead and the importance of this fight for shifters and humans. I have to admit that he is very talented when it comes to inspirational speeches , and this is clear from the energy growing in the room. Still, it’s not until he mentions an impending deployment that I finally drag my attention from the public. _ _

“At this hour, next week, our forces will be gathered on the Royal Continent, ready to launch our offensive against the tyrant , together .com the resistance forces already on the ground. It is my greatest hope that we can put an end tothis devastating conflict as soon as possible As soon as possible, but I’m also hesitant to make promises about battle timelines. War is unpredictable and chaotic at best , and I prefer to set realistic expectations than making promises I can’t keep. However, you have my word that I will do everything in my power to bring this war to a swift and speedy end. ”

The room begins to spin when Sinclair finishes. “Maybe I’m a fool, but somehow I didn’t expect him to leave Vanara so soon. I suppose I was so wrapped up in my plans to find my mother, that I couldn’t calculate how a _a successful alliance_ would affect my companion’s movements . Therefore, it is an unwelcome shock to know that he is planning to return home to fight next week – though I seem to be the only one. _ _ _

After Sinclair finishes, Gabriel stands, starting a chain of freebies that seem to drag on for too long. By the time my mate finally gets back to my side, I’m struggling to stay calm . ” Did I mention how awesome you look tonight? My companion smiles, approaching my chair with outstretched hands.

I let him lift me up, but I can’t formulate an answer. _ _ _

“Are you okay? Sinclair asks gently, his big hand circling the back of my neck.

“Can we go up now? ” I ask weakly. Sinclair is already moving, lifting me into his arms and leading me to the sound of a symphony of raucous applause. No one seems to notice that none of us seem as thrilled as we just got along. _ _ _ _ _ _ _

“Talk to me, little wolf. Sinclair murmurs as soon as we’re out of reach of the ballroom . _ _ _

“It’s nothing. I gasp, quickly correcting myself when Sinclair growls in warning. “I mean , it’s , but it’s my fault. I don’t… I don’t… I didn’t expect you to be back so soon. ” _ _ _

–

Sinclair’s eyes close, remorse washing away his features. “I’m sorry, Ella. I should have talked to you about it directly. We just finalized the plans this afternoon. The visit to the continent was an unwelcome reminder of the promises I made.I did it to myself when we left. I cannot – in good conscience – stay away now that we have the military support that we needed to. Besides, with you leaving to find your mother , there’s no reason for me to stay here for longer . ”

—

“So what happens when I find her and I’m ready to join?”to you Again, when is the time to have the baby? I ask, feeling terribly uncertain.

Sinclair sighs, carrying me to our suite. “Can I place an order, dear? ” _

“Sure. ” I agree, looking at your pretty face. _ _

“I know you’re feeling anxious right now, and we can talk about it if you need to. But we start tonight on such an amazing note, and I don’t want to knock ourselves down with conversations about war. ” He pulls his hair away from myface. “I just want to celebrate to steal a few more hours without worrying about you and just stick together. ” _ _ _

–

I nod anxiously, tears streaming from my eyelashes as I Lean in her warmth, circling my arms around her neck. ” I’d like that… Although I don’t know it, it may take some effort to make me forget . ” _

” Challenge accepted. Sinclair responds like a wolf, lowering his mouth to my neck. He pulls at the strap of my dress to reveal the swollen bite he inflicted on the altar . I whistle at the burning of the cold air, and Sinclair purrs in solidarity. “PoorDear Fellow, is your mark sore? ”

I nod pitifully, “You never claimed me without giving me an orgasm first . ” I’m sorry. “It hurt a lot more than I expected. ” _

“Well, then ,” Sinclair replies, his eyes sparkling as he takes my Seriously , “let’s see what I can do about it. “

 

Chapter 253

Elizabeth spent most of Ella and Sinclair’s mating ceremony distracted.

The problem wasn’t that she didn’t feel very happy for her new friends, it was simply that his own mind was focused elsewhere . And while that focus wasn’t too far off – it was complete. In fact, all of Elizabeth’s attention was focused on James, who sat in the back of Vanaran’s delegations with Sadie jumping into his lap. The pilot’s dark hair was combed back and his strong jaw was tightly shaven for the first time . He filled her velvet-lined tuxedo so completely that Elizabeth worried about the seams .it exploded, and it didn’t help that she could smell him as clearly as if he didwas at its side, like oak moss , amber and sea salt… And another thing that was just James.

As the passionate couple exchanged their vows, Elizabeth’s gaze drifted between James and her adopted daughter, overflowing with unspoken emotions. She was gripped by the most tortuous desire to go and be with them, and their wolf whimpered like a puppy in __her mind.

It’s not fair! The frustrated canine lashed out, unable to contain her fury as Sinclair nailed her fangs at the curve of Ella’s throat , eliciting a wailing scream from Luna – one that made the huge Alpha growl with sympathy and desire in __equal measure. Jealousy surged through Elizabeth’s veins as she watched the honorable couple fight their instincts towards unite there and now, using drunken expressions and emitting wild energy as they fought by control .

I want Jame’s brand. His wolf demanded for the hundredth time, annoyed at renewed complaint at the intimate ceremony. “Why don’t you let me have you!”

–

It’s too early. Elizabeth insisted, trying to let the canine feel the logic of her decision, instead of the agonizing desire that assaulted his senses. At the same time, another smaller one somewhere far

away. _ _ Why ? How long will it take? How long do you have to stay voice murmured unhappily?

” Are you okay?” Cora whispered, misinterpreting the other woman’s expression of pain as she leaned in to whisper into her ear . “Is this bringing back difficult memories? ”

Immediately Elizabeth understood that the concerned human expected her to focus on the past, on its her own mating ceremony and bond with her late husband. The she-wolf managed to shake her head and draw her attention back to Ella and Sinclair , But the exchange was nothing short of shocking. His companion had left a little over a year ago, and the death of His daughter was an even more recent scam. Surely she should be thinking about her true family now… the one she lost, not the one she was building.

Her confusion , guilt, and jealousy threatened to drag her down , then Elizabeth gave herself a silent jolt and pushed away the unwanted thoughts . It was all she could do to not let her gaze return to James and Sadie until The ceremony ended and the crowds began to flock to the party. Now James approached with a wide grin, the precious wrapping in Your strong arms reaching Elizabeth the moment she arrived.

” You’re amazing: “James’ words warmed Isabel from the inside out, which, combined with the sudden rush of endorphins as he hugged his little girl , forced a reluctant smile on the wolf’s face.

“You don’t have to say that. ” She blushed, shyly lowering her gaze to the floor.

“Oh, yes. James replied fiercely, pulling her chin between his thumb and forefinger. “I don’t believe in lies or hiding the truth – especially not when it’s in the face from all . So if I say you look amazing , it’s because you look so good that it would be a crime not to tell you. _ _ ”

Elizabeth nodded tremblingly, still keeping her gaze averted and grateful for being able to use Sadie as an excuse for her cowardice. “My dear scapegoat. She thought, tickling the baby’s belly and earning a wide smile in response.

Our puppy is not a scapegoat. Her she-wolf objected vehemently, wagging her fluffy tail with utter adoration as she studied the sweet child . She’s an angel. The canine made a special effort to make sure Sadie could feel the waves of love through their bonding and stress or instability from their mother. You’re right, what I was thinking. Elizabeth said, speaking directly to the baby. My angel dumpling. They laughed together as James watched, content to observe his favorite girls—at least less _time being at least . The soldier was not blind and it was clear that something was going on with his little wolf, but he knew it was best not to scare Elizabeth now. Instead, he leaned in to kiss her temple, savoring the feel of her soft body melting against her.he . “Are you ready for the party? ”

Elizabeth frowned, but was strengthened by his firm presence at her side , ” As I always will be . ”

A few hours later, Elizabeth’s head was light of so much champagne and her heart was heavy for To watch Ella and Sinclair celebrate their happiness so loudly. They deserved this party more than anyone, but Elizabeth hadn’t been the best company in this kind of event . It’s been a while. She hated small talk and personal questions, largely because of all the answers she could Providing usually made people sad and uncomfortable.

However, the longer the night dragged on , the more comfortable Elizabeth became , although She didn’t realize it until she caught herself laughing out loud at a joke. She put her hand over her mouth in surprise, and a low purr sounded in her ear . “None ofthat, now. I love hearing you laugh. Her big blue eyes turned to James in surprise, wrinkling when she saw his expression indulgent . Immediately Elizabeth realized that James was shielding her from the curious questions and tedious interactions all night long, And he haddone it with such skill that no one noticed. – Whenever someone came too close to a subject , the she-wolf tensed and her protective partner steered the conversation in another direction without a second thought . _ _

Pure safely enveloped Elizabeth’s senses, and she heard that strange, distant voice again. How long will it be enough? “How long do you have to be unhappy?”

Standing on tiptoe , Elizabeth smashed her lips into James’s. He grabbed her by the waist, holding her slender form tightly against her chest as her free hand moved to Sadie. They held it together, becoming at the same time lost in each other, but reasoned for the little life in his care. _

“Mmm, do you mind telling me what you’re thinking , little wolf? James asked, his chest vibrating in a deep rumble as his fangs brushed against his earlobe hers.

” I need to—I need to be alone with you. Elizabeth gasped, feeling terribly vulnerable and struggling to courage .

The soldier considered her for a long moment, noticing the way the she-wolf stood contortion eagerly against him, both with repressed emotion and with physical need. “Alright. He agreed, leading her out of the hall. “The nursery? ”

Isabel looked at Sadie, remembering the first time she had to leave Sophie with a nanny, and wondering if it would be more or less painful now. “To leave Sophie. Elizabeth swallowed dryly, hiding her face in the shadows.of the corridor . “Then let’s go to your rooms. ” _

Jame slowed down until he stopped in the middle of the hallway. ” Elizabeth? ”

She turned, with an expression of wild uncertainty on her features. “Please? ” She asked, her voice hoarse. “I’ve been denying my wolf for so long and you’ve been so wonderful. I don’t know why I keep pushing you away… ” Elizabeth said.He left with a helpless shrug. ” I mean, I want to… We both want to… but I don’t want to punish myself anymore. She confessed, her voice diminishing to little more than a squeal as tears filled his eyes . “I think it’s like Ella says, to go on in a frenzy You don’t mean forgetting the past, it just means freeing yourself from becoming his prisoner . ”

James nodded, pursing his lips and nodding. “She’s a smart wolf. He stepped closer, reaching out to cradle Sadie’s downy head in his huge palm , before grabbing the back of Elizabeth’s neck with the

other. “But I’m afraid I don’t understand. “There was _a devilish glint in his lethal eyes, one that said to Elizabeth that he was playing with her now—a predator who just couldn’t resist playing with your dinner . “What exactly are you asking me, Elizabeth? ”

” I’ve been here all night, seething with jealousy of Ella and Dominic because they are so happy and in love. Elizabeth admitted, embarrassed. “After all their kindness to me, I still get so angry that they they can enjoy what I’ve lost.” James cackled tenderly, moving closer. “And then I feel horrible and guilty and it’s just a cycle vicious… then tonight I realized that the only person demanding that I be miserable… it’s me… ” She shared, tears streaming down her cheeks in perfect lines . “No one else is telling me That I have to suffer, that I deserve to be alone. People have told me this before, but I don’t think I was ready to hear it before, I think I needed to stay _ _ _ _ to this place for own account . “I don’t want to be unhappy anymore, James. Elizabeth murmured, sniffling as the great wolf did his best to just listen , rather than trying to offer comfort or fix it. “I don’t want to be alone… and I couldn’t admit it until you showed up. You’ve made it very hard to keep lying to myself._ ” She he blinked, nervously biting the inside of his cheek. “I’m in love with you, for more reasons than I can. count . She concluded with a small shrug , tangling her fingers in the fabric of his shirt to steady himself. “I want you to claim me, James. “

 

Chapter 254

At first, James thought he misheard her.

Then he thought he had misunderstood.

But there was no doubt now—not the way Elizabeth was looking at him, with big eyes full of hope, anticipation and a little fear. Hearing the protected she-wolf profess her love made her heart race, until it was __slamming violently against his ribcage as he sped to a gallop . Elizabeth’s skin was bright pink, and she couldn’t really look him in the eye . Her gaze kept flying up and down, almost as if she thought James could reject it. Thisit was adorable and annoying at the same time. Didn’t she realize how crazy he was about her?

At the same time, he didn’t want to force her beyond her limits. It was one thing to think she was ready, and another to actually take such a step important. James wrapped a large hand in Elizabeth’s hair, pulling her face up.” You thought I’d refuse, honey? He asked, caressing her sharp jaw with the tip of his thumb. “Surely you realize how hopelessly in love I am with you, Elizabeth. ” _

She shrugged, sniffling harder now. “I don’t know. ”

“Oh, my sweet companion. He breathed, snuggling her into his chest. “I lost my mind for loving you, and it means the world to me that you feel the same. I’ve just been trying to be patient. “_ _ _ _ _ I don’t want you to be patient anymore. Elizabeth grumbled, all she-wolf as her eyes gleamed neon blue. James showed off his fangs and growled softly, until the animal ferocity disappeared from the Elizabeth’s countenance , ” I think I need to be pushed. “She added with a small pout. “My she-wolf has me begged to give in to you for weeks, and I have resisted her. I appreciate you trying to give me time, but I can’t do it alone. I… _ _ _ _ _ _I need help to take this final step. Elizabeth admitted, her knees looking like absolute jelly. _

James captured her lips with his, knowing exactly what she meant. Loving Elizabeth had been an exercise in endurance, self-discipline and absolute masochism. “I appreciate it, baby. He purred, kissing her cheek. “And I’m so proudof you for acknowledging and asking for help, but no there’s a rush. ” He told her, mostly to see how she would react. “Just know how you feel and that you’re ready to take that step. We can start with _getting more intimate_ and see how you feel . ”

Elizabeth did not disappoint the soldier’s wolf, throwing him a fierce scowland digging his little feet into the ground. “I don’t just mean I want you to eat me, James. Elizabeth corrected him in a sultry tone, peeking out at the underneath her eyelashes and watching as his words sank. ” I mean, I want you to actually claim me. She clarified, running her little pink tongue over the seam of her lips. His words were getting softer and more suggestive by the second, and it was _everything James could do to keep his wolf in check. “I need you You fill me with your big , hard cock, and eat until I’m ruined by any another wolf . I need you to sink your sharp fangs into me.”

–

“Enough! James’ blood was well beyond boiling point now, and though he didn’t Wanting nothing more than to take her to bed in that instant, he couldn’t resist kissing her either- it again. He growled, dragging her mouth to his and Elizabeth immediately opened it to his tongue, his light body moving restless against his. They surrendered for a few long, panting minutes, before James finally gave himself regain control of your senses. “There’s something I have to tell you, before we go any further. ” He grumbled, looking angry at __his own best judgment.

Elizabeth winced, fighting a shiver of dread. She was worried about it… about what would happen to her relationship with James once the war broke out.really started. She had also seen the way all the Alphas were muttering and talking today, making plans and whispering strategies . And now with James looking at her, his brow furrowed with regret… It wasn’t hard to guess what he was about to say. “You go with Dominic into battle, don’t you? ” She stated, her mouth suddenly looking very hard .

“He asked me to be his second-in-command while sending Roger to some another mission . ” _ James confirmed, trying to read Elizabeth’s closed features. “The refugees won’t need me to transport them every day, because we will be between them and the threat. ” He sighed heavily. “It will be a relief. _ _ ”

Elizabeth nodded, her eyes burning. ” He’d be a fool if he was without you.”

” Can you look at me, sweet fellow? James asked, using that sacred nickname for the first time, and seeing the shape as the vibrations of his voice whizzed through the she-wolf. _

She raised her bright eyes to him, and he kissed her again, at length . “I’m going to do everything in my power to get back home, to you and Sadie . Nothing will keep me away. His need for her was growing wild and violent, even stronger now that they talked about separation. Elizabeth simply nodded, arching into his mouth , searching for his lips with her hers. James only favored her for a moment, by pushing back and grabbing her hips with an alarming force. “Tell me now, Elizabeth. James begged, desperate to claim it , but I hate to scare her. “Before we go too far to turn back. Are you sure that’s what you want? ”

Looking at him now, she’d never been so sure of anything. “If you plan to flee to war on the s*tch, then you don’t has a choice. You’re going to claim me, man.”The words were spoken in Elizabeth’s voice. trademark ferocity, but also a shiver of fear , like if She still didn’t trust this to be real.

James stripped Elizabeth naked as if she were a carefully wrapped gift, whose paper is too beautiful to risk tearing. He kissed every new inch of skin he bared, running his lips down his arms, neck and shoulders her as the blouse disappeared, then working his way down his flat belly until he reached the button of his jeans. ( 2

It was torture, the way he danced in the places where she more needed his mouth. He took off her bra, licking and nibbling on her spine until her wrist was racing , then doing the same thing with her panties,

rolling them out of her hips.and devoting his attention to the curve of his hip, to the bulge of her ass and the inside of her thighs.

 

Chapter 255

” Well, it looks like you and I are the only bachelors left in this place , ” Cora commented to Gabriel , watching Isabel and James in their far corner of the table . Thankfully, they weren’t as obvious about their romance of her as her sister was of her and Sinclair .to whom one could easily be shocked if the couple did not realize that they had an audience . Isabel and James , on the other hand , had been snuggled together for the better part of an hour , close but not really touching . really his _Proximity isn’t what gave them away it was their laser focus on each other , not speaking or looking at anyone else . _ It was as if they were the only two people in the world . _

Cora felt a pang of jealousy and immediately forced her away , embarrassed by the ugly emotion . Instead , she tried to concentrate on her conversation with the king . ” Excuse me , but I happen to be dating a very handsome wolf named Thomas . “. Gabriel replied , not sounding annoyed in the least by her assumption of him.

” Oh . ” Cora frowned , obviously disappointed to learn that even the Vanaran king was also part of a couple now . ” I’m sorry , I should n’t have assumed , ” she sincerely apologized , even as questions welled up in the back of her head.mind . NamelyWhen had he become so sentimental that the sight of just one happy couple could make his heart overflow with longing ? What learning about another could make her boil with envy ?

” Okay . ” _ Gabriel assured him : “ It is intentional . I prefer people to keep guessing about my love life . ”

Cora concentrated enough to sneer sympathetically , ” Yeah , I ‘d imagine there are a hundred too many opinions on that particular subject . ” _

” You can say that again .” Gabriel chuckled , taking a sip of his wine from him . Then , a mischievous expression appeared on his face in the form of a small , secret smile as if he was about to admit

something he should n’t . goes_ good though _ Someday soon I hope to make it official . _ _ ”

Cora forced herself to smile . Congratulations ! _ “ To make a relationship official in the world of shapeshifters meant a formal claim : another mating ceremony . She tried to hide the sudden , inexplicable pain that swallowed her insides from her , silently wondering if she was freaking out … or maybe about to get her period . She was never so moody and she could n’t understand it . _ _

“ Thank you , but if it happens it will be after the war . Gabriel replied , visibly recanting her own hopes of him in favor of realistic expectations . _ _ _ _ _

” Are you sure ? Cora asked , nodding at James and Isabel . _ _ ” Maybe they have the right idea , bond while you can . ” _ _ _ _

It was their last night in Vanara , either traveling to the halls of Altaran to find Ella’s mother , or returning to the mainland with Sinclair to face Damon . Either way , they would all be separated by this time tomorrow … and goodbyes in times of war . They were the worst of all . _ Cora she knew that there were never guarantees in life , and she knew especially the cost of fighting at home . Suddenly, an image flashed in his mind of her, a bloody vision of the operating room that afternoon , of a resistance fighter they had failed to save . Only in his mind ‘s eye of him was Roger ‘s face in that lifeless form , instead of the stranger he had been unable to save .

“ Cora , are you okay ? Gabriel asked suddenly , worry seizing him as tears welled up on the human ‘s lashes .

“ I’m fine . She assured him through a completely unconvincing smile . _ “ I just need a moment . Some fresh air . ” _ She gasped , pushing her chair back . He met Ella’s concerned gaze and shook his head to make sure she was right.her sister did not follow her .Unfortunately , there was nothing she could do to stop Roger from following her .

Cora moved stiffly for the balcony doors and ran out onto the terrace . The gardens were still decorated from the night before , though they were much quieter now . Courtiers and delegations , all refugees willing and able to fight , _ _everyone was home preparing for war . _ Those who weren’t were back in the dining room trying to enjoy what little time they had left together . Cora descended into the maze of plants , sucking in great gulps of air as her awareness of her cruelly narrated.the scene . _ _ And tonight they ‘ll all go up to their rooms and hold each other tight and make sweet , sweet love and I ‘ll be here … staring at a fucking leaf .

Cora made a face and shook herself a bit , “ Enough ! ” , she scolded herself . “ You’re being a brat . It’s not their fault they’re happy . ”

“ Talking to yourself , little human ? A familiar and infuriatingly deep voice sounded behind her . _ _

Cora jumped , turning back to look at Roger . ” You know where I come from , it’s rude to stalk lonely women in the dark and listen to their private conversations . ”

Roger frowned , as if racking his brains . “ No , no , we come from the same place and I don’t remember any rules like that . Also , is it a conversation if you are having it with yourself ? ” _

“ It’s the most private type of conversation . I answer haughtily , turning my nose towards the handsome wolf . _ _ _ ” So do us both a favor and run before you make things even more awkward than they already are . ”

Roger pursed his lips , shoving his hands into his pockets as he crept forward . ” Well, since things are already so awkward , I might as well ask why you’re crying … and why you were mad because someone is happy . ” Cora crossed from _arms . on his chest From him, wishing he could kill this man with his eyes alone … then trying and snorting when the big wolf just chuckled . ” Come on , ” He encouraged , moving so close now that they were almost touching . _ _ _ ” Do you know that I can be a _ very good listener . ”

Somehow , Cora doubted that Roger’s services as an impartial friend and advisor extended to her feelings for him … not that she had feelings, of course . ” Actually I ‘m going to bed . She lied quickly . But listen , in case we do n’t have one opportunity in the Tomorrow I want to thank you for being so supportive of me . _ _ _ Tor helping me and getting me out of Moon Valley in the first place . _ _ _ You saved my life . She held out her hand , ” I hope we meet again . ” ”

Cora was counting the minutes until her and Ella ‘s departure , and dreading them . She knew that saying this goodbye would be difficult , but she was also the one she wanted the most to get out of the way . _ _ _ _ _

” Oh, I see . ” Roger’s lips unfurled in an utterly devilish smile . “ I was wondering why you didn’t mention it . Dominic did n’t tell you . ”

” You didn’t tell me what ? Cora snapped , not liking the predatory grin on her face one bit .

“ Well , since the killer told Damon that the Alpha is dead , his next logical targets are Ella and the baby . _ This possibility seemed to be confirmed when Kieran was approached by Damon , so we made arrangements to ensure additional security on his journey . “. Roger explained vaguely , looking like the cat that ate the canary . _ “ You must realize that my brother puts the safety of his mate and his son even above his own … he will spare no resource or expense for Ella and Rafe . ”

” What are you saying ? Ella Cora demanded , though she had a terrible feeling that she already knew .

” I’m saying you do n’t have to worry about getting separated or something happening to me while you’re on Altara .” Roger clarified , still smiling as he pushed Cora against the wall .

” Why not ? _ Cora swallowed , cursing her body as she instinctively backed away from the wolf .

Roger bared his fangs . ” Because I’m going with you . ” He stated , in a tone that sent shivers down Cora ‘s spine . _ ” I’ll be with you every step of the way . ” Roger continued as Cora ‘s shoulder blades collided withthe stone , and he loomed over her , taking her cheek in his great hand . ” Day and night , for the next few weeks … on a chain of deserted islands … with nothing to do but watch over your sister with a dozen other guards . “” . she purred Ella, and Cora found her lashes droop , wondering if he was about to kiss her … and then wondering if she would have the strength to stop him .

He did n’t . “ I don’t know about you , ” Roger concluded , his dark eyes boring into Cora’s as she looked up at him again , nervously licking her lips . His glowing wolf gaze dropped from her to follow her little pink tongue from her, and suddenly the Beta wasfinding his pants too tight . _ ” But I’m going to work hard to think of ways to entertain ourselves during those long hours on the boat and in the temple . ” _ _ _

Cora’s heart pounded frantically against her ribs , her thighs clenching reflexively to ease the ache in her core . “ Surely a temple dedicated to the Goddess is a very holy and sacred place , ” Ella Cora suggested , her voice quavering . ” Probablywe will have tobe very quiet and respectful while we are there . ”

Roger laughed , a sort of ominous , knowing roar . ” Sweet Cora , is that really what you expect , knowing what you make of our kind ? ” ”

Suddenly, her mind returned to the changing holidays and traditions she was familiar with , and the few she was able to celebrate with Ella this year . She thought of the Solstice , with its bonfires , moon baths , and wild hunt . She thought of the primitive , paganthe energy of those nights , the way they are all rooted in ancient magic and base instincts , the raw sensuality they all seemed to bring to the surface . She thought of the heady power of being alone with Roger in these completely nondescript settings , and tried to imagine yourself in a place of mystery and power , where all your senses would be heightened even more .

And suddenly she understood why Roger seemed so pleased with himself .

It was clear that he did not expect her to be able to resist once they left together . He planned to make her his , sooner rather than later . _ _ _ _ And the scariest part of all ? Cora had a very bad feeling that she was going to have success .

 

Chapter 256

“I can’t believe you didn’t tell me!” Cora grouses, shooting me a death glare as we gather at the Royal docks. Vanarium–hulled ships fitted with cutting edge defense and weaponry systems are moored along the wharf, their crews flitting around like hundreds of tiny ants as they prepare the vessels for departure. One, the smallest, is bound for the Altaran Islands and my mother; the others are all headed back home to face Damon.

None of us want to say goodbye.

Sinclair bundles me in his arms and nuzzles my neck, his wolf grumbling and growling as he nibbles my mating mark, repeatedly reminding me that I’m his – as if I could forget. Mine, mine, mine. He proclaims, his wandering hands moving over my round belly. We don’t leave for another half hour, but I’m already beginning to worry he won’t let me go when the time comes. Isabel is in the same boat, cuddled up with James and Sadie, trying to pretend she isn’t crying as the big Soldier soothes and pets her. She focuses her attention on her young daughter, rocking and shushing the perfectly content child – as if Sadie is the one in need of comfort instead of her mother. James doesn’t say a word, merely kissing Isabel and holding her a bit tighter.

Of course, when I say no one wants to say goodbye, I’m excluding my sister, who is still complaining about the fact I didn’t warn her Roger would be joining our journey as added security. “Seriously Ella, you had to know I wouldn’t approve!”

“I’m not listening!” I sing in reply, closing my eyes and kissing my mate. I slide my arms around his neck, and Sinclair chuckles as he claims my lips. That’s it. His wolf croons in my head. Just ignore her and let me gobble you up, little mate.

I can’t help but giggle into his wolfish grin, catching a flash of emerald fire in his eyes as he captures my nape and drags my mouth back to his. I lean into my mate, letting him support my weight as we get

lost in one another. Heat pools in my belly, and I can feel my inner animal starting to get excited. Scenting my arousal, Sinclair pulls back with a reluctant frown – there’s not enough time for us to come together again before we go, and continuing to rile one another up before parting is a recipe for misery.

Thus I don’t really mind my sister’s whining, because at least it’s a welcome distraction from the imminent separation of our party. I’m painfully aware that this might be the last time I ever see my mate, but it isn’t only Sinclair I’m going to miss – nor is he the only one for whom I’m worried. When all this began I didn’t know any of these people, now I feel as though I have a deep and abiding bond with each of these wolves – forged through the crucible of mutual trauma. Of course it’s more than that too. They’re my family, my pack. 1

I don’t want to lose any one of these people… but we’re going to war and the unavoidable reality is that come of these shifters won’t survive. The mere thought forces me to clamp my eyes shut. If I continue watching them, I’m sure I’ll start to cry – though today I think tears are inevitable. Anger is easier, so I direct all my pent up feelings towards the person who truly deserves them: Damon. Standing here, looking around at the somber, solemn faces of the people I love most – it’s painfully obvious how much we all have to lose, and I’d happily destroy anyone who tries to steal more from us than has already been taken. It honestly makes me want to forget finding my mother so I can go straight home and destroy that tyrant.

“You’re glowing again, trouble.” Sinclair tells me softly, leaning his cheek against my hair. I crack an eye open and take a peek at my skin. At first it seems like nothing more than a shimmer – like the iridescent sheen of snake scales in sunlight, or the glimmering luster of pearl dust. However the effect only grows stronger as I watch, and soon it appears as though my pores are emanating their own white light. I feel like I’m back on the Ether – as if my altered consciousness is bending reality to ensnare my senses.

“I’m fantasizing about how you’re going to kill Damon.” I confess, breathing in his wonderful scent as grisly images fill my mind. I share the pictures with Sinclair through our bond, hoping to inspire him.

Decapitation, disembowelment, beating him bloody with his own dumb leg… or maybe you could tie him up and sick some rogues on him.

“Mmm, my bloodthirsty mate.” He purrs, letting me feel the steady vibrations in his chest. There’s a flash of sadistic appreciation through our bond, but Sinclair’s wolf seems much more interested in exploring every inch of my glowing skin. “I can’t wait to see all the incredible things you learn from your mother.” He lifts my hand to his lips, holding my gaze as he bestows long, luxurious kisses over my knuckles. “You hold such mysteries for our kind, Ella. There’s no telling the secrets you’re about to uncover.” He murmurs, rocking me back and forth in place. “I can’t wait to see you figure it all out and unlock your power… to watch you come into your own. My Ella.”

I can hear the words he’s leaving unsaid, his hope that he lives long enough to see these gifts manifest, and to see our son come into the world. Oh Goddess, I think as his mood grows heavy. It’s getting close to our departure time, but I’m not ready to say goodbye, not yet. I’ll never be ready. I nod eagerly, “I’ll learn. And I’ll come to you as soon as I can. Maybe we can castrate Damon together?” I suggest hopefully.

Sinclair laughs, “Whatever happened to that innocent little nanny who wouldn’t hurt a fly?”

I hiccup and sniffle, fighting the emotions seeking to drown me. There’s a new frisson of tension in the air, a sense of communal understanding that we need to finish up. I try to smile, “She was corrupted by a big bad wolf, of course.”

Sinclair kisses me, pouring all his tenderness and passion through our bond. “Listen to me, baby. We don’t have a lot of time left.”

I shake my head, the tears hovering on my lashes immediately tumbling down my cheeks. The last time I said goodbye to my mate he almost died, and that was supposed to be a safe trip. Now he’s

actually going into battle. Primal fear and bad memories rage and roil inside my chest, and part of me wants to cling to my mate and beg him not to go.

“I know, sweetheart.” Sinclair assures me, not needing any explanation for my sudden panic. “It will be okay.” He soothes, stroking my trembling lower lip with his thumb. “I know I can’t promise us a future, but Goddess… if I could…” He shakes his head in frustration, holding me a bit tighter as his green gaze seers me. “When we get through this I’m going to write you a whole book of promises and spend the rest of our lives fulfilling them.”

“The only promise I need is for you to always remember how much I love you.” I counter, trying to steady my shaking voice. “How much Rafe loves you… and your pack.” I want to bury my head in his chest and sob, but somehow I manage to keep going. “I need you to promise that whatever happens, you always keep reminding yourself how worthy you are of all that love – because you are. You’re brilliant and selfless and deserve so much more credit than you take.” I’m trying to think of all the things I need to say to him, just in case this is the end. I don’t want to leave a single word unsaid. “And you musn’t blame yourself for whatever comes to pass. You have given everything for this pack, and you’re about to give even more. None of this is your fault, Dominic.” “Right back at you, gorgeous.” He smiles sadly, and a pulse of uncertainty escapes me. Now that the moment is upon us, the idea of running off to remote shifter lands without him is too daunting to contemplate. Self–doubt assails me, and Sinclair doesn’t accept it for a moment. “I believe in you.” He professes intently. “I know you will succeed, I know you will find the answers you seek, and I know that you will master your powers with flying colors. You have an incredible future ahead of you, no matter what happens in this war, you know that?” Sinclair’s eyes are shining as he returns my sentiments, trying to fit a lifetime of love and emotion into a few words.

“I believe in you.” I reply tearfully. “Damon is no match for you, Dominic. He’s a little boy who got hold of a big stick and he thinks he can make us all back down. You’re going to prove him wrong, you’re going to show him what a weak little insect he is.”

“I love you so much.” Sinclair declares, dragging me into his arms. “If Damon wants to keep me from you, he’s going to have to do a lot worse than kill me.” He drops onto his knees then, pressing his palms to either side of my tummy and leaning his forehead against my navel. My precious pup. I have to leave you now, and I’m so sorry. It’s the last thing I want in the whole world, but I promise I’m going to do everything in my power to come back to you. I can’t wait to meet you, Rafe. I’m expecting to feel confusion or offense through my bond with the baby, but instead I hear the tiniest, garbled wail. It almost sounds like a person speaking underwater, only much for garbled and high pitched. My eyes widen as I realize that our unborn pup is crying within my womb – for the first time. Sinclair looks at me in surprise and absolute misery as we reach the same conclusion: Rafe understands. And he is not happy.

Chapter 257

The floor of the ship’s afterdeck bucks and reels on the rolling ocean waves, the deck surging up and falling beneath my feet. I grip the railing and try to breathe in the fresh sea air, keeping my eyes locked on the distant horizon. Cora appears by my side with a bottle of water. “How’s the nausea?”

“You would think a ship this large couldn’t be thrown around so easily.” I chuckle in reply, gingerly sipping the water. It’s our fourth day at sea, and I barely made it through the second afternoon before the swells became so rough that I began to feel ill. After my first bout of vomiting I fled our stuffy cabin and came up above deck which helped – but now I’m afraid to take my eyes off of the horizon, and the Goddess knows there isn’t any land in sight to spot instead.

Cora laughs, “babe this tub is a drop in the bucket.” She reminds me, patting the side of the silver watercraft. “Besides, they warned us these seas are rough.”

I groan, taking another drink. “How much longer?”

Her face lights up, “I just came from the wheelhouse, the captain says we should be able to sight the islands within the hour!”

That gets my attention. I straighten up immediately, trying to shake off my malaise. Adrenaline rushes up to beat back some of the illness, and I find myself inspecting my clothing for wrinkles and stains. Maybe it’s utter insanity, but if I’m going to be meeting my mother today I want to make a good impression, even if I am five months pregnant, sick to my stomach and fleeing a war zone.

“Easy now, it’ll be a few hours yet.” Roger chides, coming to stand on my left. He leans on the railing mirroring Cora, who determinedly ignores him. “We’ll have plenty of time to make ourselves presentable after we’ve docked.”

That does settle my wolf a bit, but I wish Sinclair was here. I pull out my phone and turn on the recording of his purrs, feeling some of my tense muscles unwind as soon as I press play. My nerves have been absolutely fried since we separated. On one hand this is to be expected – given the seriousness of our situation. However, something tells me that my anxiety is less about the wolf I left in Vanara, and more about the woman for whom I’m headed. Afterall, I know Sinclair loves me almost too much. I have no idea how my mother feels about me, and I’ve been

–

dreaming of her for as long as I can remember.

I peek at my sister. “So… do you hate me?” I ask, pulling her attention away from Roger.

Cora, who was thoroughly occupied staring daggers at the wolf, gradually drags her attention to my face. Her brow furrows. “What do you mean?”

“I mean, we spent our whole lives wishing for parents.” I sigh, searching my sister’s lovely face. “if the situation were reversed I think I’d feel pretty jealous.”

“I mean I am.” Cora shrugs, having the grace to look slightly abashed. She wraps her arm around me and rests her head on my shoulder. “But I’m happier than I am jealous – I want this to be everything you’ve been hoping and waiting for, Ellie.”

For one moment, I forget we aren’t alone. Roger and the sailors fade into the background, and then it’s only Cora and me, looking out at the deep blue water surrounding us on all sides. I snuggle into my sister’s warmth, needing to feel her affection as I contemplate the uncertainty awaiting us. I inhale a shaky breath, “What if she doesn’t like me?” I whisper, in an impossibly small voice.

–

Roger has the decency to make himself scarce as Cora pulls back from me in surprise. “Ella, what are you talking about? This woman prayed and prayed for you for years! She wanted a child more than anything and then she didn’t even get to raise you, if anything I expect she’s going to like you too much.”

I’m not ashamed to say that I let this fantasy take hold of my mind for a minute. I picture myself arriving at an ethereal temple by the coast, and a beautiful woman in long robes running towards me with open arms. I imagine feeling her embrace… my mother’s embrace, and I shudder. “I’m afraid to hope.” I admit, gnawing on my lower lip. “It’s so much easier with the war because as horrible as things are, I’ve only been caught up in this for a few months I mean it hasn’t even been a year, Cora!”

“I know.” She nods in understanding, rubbing my back. “And you’ve been holding out hope for parents for the better part of 30 years.” A hard edge enters her usually soft voice. “It’s much easier to believe in the things you haven’t already seen played out a hundred times before.”

I blink the tears from my eyes to study Cora’s countenance, which remains drawn and sober. There’s something so lost in her deep brown eyes, and I realize she’s probably feeling about as raw as I am right now. I may be vulnerable and on–edge, but she sounds so disconsolate that I simply can’t bear it. “I’m really rich now, you know.” I tell her with a sly smile. Cora blinks in confusion, “I’m sorry, do you want me to hate you?”

“No!” I laugh, rolling my eyes. “I’m saying that I could hire an investigator… if you want to find your family.”

Cora’s face lights up for a second, then quickly falls. “No.” She answers shortly, and I wonder if she’s talking to me or her own conscience. “I hate to say it, sis. But I think we’ve maxed out our miracles.” 1

“You never know, just look at what happened with me.” I encourage, knowling I’m walking a thin line now. I want to help my sister, but I also don’t want to be cruel by giving her false hopes.

“You also happen to be a she–wolf with the Goddess’s own blood in your veins.” Cora counters, a note of derision in her voice. “Somehow I doubt things will turn out so well for me.”

“I’m sorry, Cora.” I proclaim sincerely, “I wasn’t trying to rub your face in my good fortune.” (1

“It’s okay,” Cora exhales, her entire body softening as she wraps me in a hug. “I know you were only trying to help, but I came to terms with the fact that I will never know where I came from a long time ago. Being reminded… it only hurts.” She has to bend over my swollen belly in order to properly embrace me, and her voice is full of warmth when she finally pulls back. “But Ella, your mother is going to love you so much. Just think, all those years you were waiting for her and not knowing if she was even out there… well she was waiting for you too, probably counting down the days until she finally got to meet you, knowing you were out there but forced to stay away.”

My heart swells in my chest, and I cling to my sister, nuzzling her shoulder. “Maybe we can share her.” I suggest, “If she’s like me then she probably wanted lots of babies. I bet she’d adopt you.”

“Thank you.” Cora laughs, “But we should probably wait and see what she’s like before we decide to make any offers.

I scoff, “hey it’s a good deal. Two awesome daughters for the price of one.”

“Oh, I’m sorry, is she buying you now?” Cora teases. “With what money? She’s been living in a wolf convent for the last five years.”

“She was a queen.” I respond, my eyes narrowed. “She probably has it stored away somewhere.”

“Yeah, or she donated it like most people when they join a religious sect.” Cora responds with amusement.

“Fine, she won’t buy us!” I finally surrender, “it was just an idea.”

“A ridiculous idea.” Cora laughs, and I squeeze her even more tightly.

“I’m sorry to interrupt ladies,” Roger says, stepping close enough to drag our attention away from one another. “but if you want to go to the bow, land has been sighted. The navigator confirmed it’s the Altaran islands.”

Before the words are even out of his mouth, Cora is gripping my arm and pointing into the north, her face alight with excitement. “Ella, look!”

A group of islands appear so suddenly on the horizon that I have to wonder whether or not they might have been pulled up straight out of the sea for our benefit. They’re dark and jagged and entirely too ominous, with black volcanic beaches and jagged peaks thrusting skyward, lined with spiraling cliffs. My heart races the closer we come, and soon the islands are not merely blurry shadows, but solid, stark and in high contrast to the endless ocean.

And there, on the distant shore, stand three figures in long robes – waiting.

It seems to take a lifetime for our ship to moor, and another lifetime over by the time we’ve loaded into smaller boats to venture ashore. I recognize Reina as soon as I see her, standing tall and proud between the priests from my memories. If I expected her to greet me with tears or laughter, I was wrong.

Instead she merely looks at me with sharp, searching eyes. They travel up my body, assessing me coolly as they finally rise to my face. “You’re too late.”

 

Chapter 258

Of all the things I expected to hear when I met my long–lost mother for the first time, it certainly wasn’t, “You’re too late.”

I stop dead in my tracks, glancing nervously at Cora, Roger and Philippe. We’re barely out of the transport boats, and my bare feet are sinking into the dense black sand covering the beach. It slips between my toes, and I absentmindedly squidge them this way and that, enjoying the sensations while my brain tries to catch up.

“We’re too late?” I finally repeat as our little party remains frozen at the edge of the waves, wondering if we might be sent back the way we came.

“You should have been here months ago.” One of the priests announces grimly.

I recognize the man from my dreams, and suddenly my heart stops beating. His face is so familiar, and yet I doubt I’d be able to pick him out of a lineup. He’s at once entirely unremarkable, yet impossible to forget. Cora leans into me, sensing my tension if not my malfunctioning heart. “I didn’t even know this place existed until last week!” I say by way of explanation, my voice hoarse and wary. “I would have come sooner if I knew I was supposed to.”

The three figures exchange dubious glances, and though my wolf refuses to take her attention off the priests, my other senses are completely distracted by my investigation of my mother. She smells familiar, but when I reach towards her with my thoughts, I come up against a blank wall. She’s shutting me out. My heart sinks, and a new voice pulls my attention from Reina’s beautiful face.

The second priest – also from my nightmares – grumbles, “Very well then, you’d better come in.” We begin to move forward, but Reina stops us with a raised palm. “Just Ella.” She orders, her voice soft and yet inarguable. “The rest of you will have to return to your ship.”

“We’re not leaving her.” Cora objects, her hand wrapping tightly around my arm as if she fears they might attempt to take me by force.

“You’ll have to.” The first priest responds dryly. “This is sacred land. Only those blessed by the Goddess are permitted to enter, you risk grave misfortune by setting foot in her temple without invitation.”

“Then we’ll risk it.” Roger bites back, stepping forward with utter authority. “We stay with Ella.” Reina arches one blonde brow as she considers my mate’s brother. After some contemplation, she concedes, “As you wish.” One graceful palm is outstretched, welcoming our small group onto the island. “But no more, the rest of your crew will have to stay aboard.”

The trio turn their backs and begin marching through the sand towards the temple. I stare at their retreating forms in shock, trying to wrap my head around this turn of events. They seem both entirely unsurprised and thoroughly underwhelmed by my arrival. Granted, I wasn’t expecting fanfare or even a welcome banner, but I did assume we’d be received with warmth… especially by my mother.

She barely looked at me.

I feel a tugging at my elbow and realize Cora is trying to pull me forward. Meanwhile I’m standing here gaping like a fish, too stunned to move. “Come on, honey.” Cora encourages softly, “let’s get you off your feet.”

Despite our chilly greeting, Queen Reina and the priests turn out to be generous hosts. They usher us into the temple and set us up in front of a blazing fire. A few novice priestesses carry in dishes piled high with food, as well as kettles full of tea and coffee.

I find myself shrinking next to Cora, increasingly ill–at–ease with every moment that passes. No one says a word. Reina and the priests seem perfectly content to wait until the servants have delivered

everything and we’re alone… unfortunately for them, I’m not so patient. “Would someone please tell us what’s going on?”

“You don’t know?” Reina inquires, setting down the steaming teapot in her hands.

“Well I thought I did!” I burst, still gripping Cora’s hand. “I came here to find you and learn about my past and my powers, but now I’m only confused.” I explain, “You seem to be expecting us, yet you tell us we’re too late.” I look to Reina now, trying not to show my hurt. “You’re my mother, but you don’t seem to care that I’m here!”

“That isn’t true.” Reina corrects me gently. “We’re all very happy you’re here, Ella. We’re just worried. There’s not much time left.”

“That may be true, but it isn’t my fault.” I counter, crossing my arms over my chest, “You left me helpless, defenseless, with no possible tools or advantages in life. You didn’t leave me a single hint about my true identity, so is it any surprise that it took me so long to figure it out?”

“No.” The first priest concedes, bowing his head. “It isn’t.”

“Will you at least tell me your names?” I inquire, feeling far more bold than I did a few minutes ago, “I keep calling you one and two in my head and it’s confusing.”

“I’m Silas.” The second priest offers me something akin to a smile, “and this is Pollux.”

“You two,” I accuse hoarsely, not sure where I’m headed with this, or why it’s coming out now. “ You bound my wolf, you tormented me.”

“We also saved your life.” Pollux points out, his dark eyes flashing.

“Did it ever occur to you that I might not have been broken enough to need saving if you’d protected me?” I demand harshly, trying and failing to get to my feet. Instead my ungainly belly topples me right

back into my chair.

“Just stay down, babe.” Cora murmurs in my ear. “You’re more intimidating seated than standing at this point.”

I glare at her over my shoulder, before extending a hand to Roger with a pleading expression. He helps me to my feet, and I begin to pace. “All this time I’ve been asking myself why I was being punished, why I was being tested.” I turn my focus to Riena, “I’ve waited 30 years to find out where I came from, and now I finally find you and it’s like..” I trail off, pulling out my phone so I can play the recording of Sinclair’s purrs. If this is confusing for Reina and the Priests, they give no hint. Instead they wait until my breathing has gone from heaving gasps to steady exhales, and I summon my remaining patient. “I just want answers. I just want to know who I am and what I’m supposed to do in this war. Where in the world do I belong?”

I don’t realize I’m crying until Cora scrambles up and wraps herself around me, making soft shushing sounds. “You belong with me, Ella. If nowhere else, you belong with me, and Dominic and Henry…”

“You belong right here among the Goddess’s most honored servants.” Reina interrupts, earning a vicious glare from Cora. “Surely you must realize you are no ordinary woman.”

“But I am.” I insist, clutching my sister. “Do you think you can erase so much hurt with a few divine gifts? Do you believe that beauty or wealth can undo the crimes committed against me?”

“You are not ordinary, Ella.” Reina repeats firmly. “Perhaps you are in matters of the heart, but you certainly aren’t when it comes to lineage and power.”

“Well what good does that do anyone, if I’m too late?” I inquire, trying to get my raging emotions under control. “Are we bound to fail now?” Tears steam from my eyes as I contemplate this possibility for the first time. “Are… are you telling me I’m too late to help us win? To save the packs?”

The priests exchange unreadable glances. “Not necessarily. We didn’t mean to make it sound so final.” Pollux explains. “None of us know what the future holds, but I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t worried.”

“We’re sorry for what you have suffered, Ella.” Silas offers, sounding sincere despite his austere expression. “And we’re sorry that this meeting isn’t what you expected. It’s clear there have been a few misunderstandings, but the important part now is that you’re here. We just have to do our best and hope that it’s enough.”

I shake my head, feeling completely adrift and longing for my mate so fiercely I could scream. I reach for him through our bond, even though I know he’s much too far away to feel me. My tugs on the connection come up empty, but I notice that I can feel his absence. It’s like a hole in my chest that can’t be filled again until he returns. But it is there. Whereas, with Queen Reina, I don’t feel anything at all – not even an absence of what should be.

I turn to Reina, realization dawning. “We aren’t bonded.” I assess, wrapping my arms around myself. “Are we?”

“No.” Reina confirms gravely, and I see a flash of pain in her eyes. “Ella, you have to understand that I only carried you… I was never your true mother.”

“I don’t understand.” Tears burn my eyes, “If you’re not my mother then who is?”

“Sweetheart.” Reina leans forward to take my hands in hers. They’re warm and soft, but I feel no greater energy, no sign that we might have a connection beyond that of strangers. “Your mother – your only mother, is the Goddess.”

 

Chapter 259

“You’re not my mother?” I whisper, my voice positively tiny.

Looking at Reina, it makes sense. She’s tall and willowy, with black hair, olive skin and dark eyes – just about my polar opposite. I’m recalling Henry telling me that I don’t resemble her or Xavier, so I must take after the Goddess, but I didn’t truly understand how great the dissimilarity was until this moment. It seems a silly question now; of course she’s not my mother. How could she be?

The weight of my crushed hopes batter me from every direction, as if they aren’t simply falling from above, but closing in around me, suffocating and strangulating. They’re all watching me with the same sympathetic expression: Reina, the priests and Roger. Only Cora refuses to pity me, choosing instead to offer our hosts a death stare for upsetting me.

“Ella, please sit down.” Reina pleads, pulling me back over to the fire. “If you’ll listen, we’ll explain everything.”

“Okay. I manage to utter weakly, reclaiming my seat. “Explain.”

Reina clasps her hands in her lap, taking a deep breath. “When I married Xavier, I had my entire life planned out. I would finish school, wait a year or two before trying for pups, maybe work a little. All in all I expected to spend the first years of my union learning to be a queen and preparing to ascend to the throne in another decade or so. Then Xavier’s father died suddenly and unexpectedly, and all at once my plans fell apart. We were coronated when I was just 22.”

She pauses to sip her tea, and though the flavor is sweet her lips form a grimace. “Xavier and I chose one another. He’d rejected his fated mate and all his parents‘ plans for an arranged marriage, and all for me. At the time it was romantic, I felt like I was living a fairytale. And then things changed… or perhaps the problem is that they weren’t changing.” Her eyes drop to my pregnant belly, and the

muscle in her cheek twitches. “I had half a dozen miscarriages before the doctors told me to stop trying… they said I’d kill myself if I continued.”

My cheeks are wet, as if her words flipped on a switch in my brain and opened the dam. “I’m so sorry.” I profess, “I know what it’s like to struggle with infertility but I never… I’m just so sorry.”

“Don’t be.” Reina purses her lips, and I wonder if she truly means it. “You wouldn’t be here if I’d been able to conceive, and we would all be the worse for it.”

“I’m still sorry.” I repeat, wanting to hug her but not trusting my ability to get out of my chair without assistance.

“I appreciate that.” Reina replies, softening slightly as she continues with her tale. “Of course, Xavier was at a loss. His greatest responsibility as King was to produce heirs and carry on his bloodline. My inability… my failure made that impossible. We were stuck. Xavier couldn’t reject me – not when I was crowned queen and not after he’d made such a fuss about choosing me in the first place, though he probably should have.” An expression of torment crosses her pretty features. “More than once over the years I’ve thought this all could have been avoided if he hadn’t rejected his fated mate. They would have produced heirs, the monarchy would never have been in threat, and his sons would have taken over when he died.”

“And we’ve reminded Reina that this was all put in motion by much greater forces than the workings of a few power–hungry shifters.” Silas chimes in, using a gentle tone that indicates they’ve discussed this many times indeed. “The God of Darkness has been at work for centuries.” Reina inhales a steadying breath as she meets Silas’s gaze, nodding in appreciation. “Well, however it came about, that was the beginning of the end for me and Xavier. All the things that had seemed so romantic when we first fell in love… all the sacrifices he made for me… they became naught but resentments. He blamed me for everything that went wrong in his life from then on, and I could see him reframing the things he once loved about me as annoyances.”

Her eyes fall shut, and I can almost feel her pain. “A couple of times when he became very drunk, I caught him looking at me with such hatred in his eyes that I actually worried he might try to kill me just to get me out of the way. It was as if I had become this insurmountable hurdle standing between him and everything he’d ever wanted…” When her lashes rise again they’re wet with tears. “He forgot he wanted me once.”

“So I did the only thing I could,” Reina shrugs, “I prayed. I’d prayed to the Goddess for all my babies, but I’d never felt so utterly desperate. It was no longer simply a matter of wanting to be a mother, it was a matter of my entire future happiness, my marriage and possibly even my survival. I’d never been so low before.” She lifts her eyes heavenward, to the open ceiling and the stars above us. “I never dreamed she would respond in person.”

“She appeared to me as if she’d been there all along – one moment I was alone and weeping, the next I was awake with this glowing being before me. It physically hurt to look at her, as if I knew I was gazing upon something I was never meant to see.” Reina’s attention turns back to me, and I’m surprised to see she’s smiling. “You look so much like her, Ella. All of the beauty but none of the pain. ”

“So what happened?” Cora asks, leaning in as if she worries Reina might stop her story here. “She asked me why I wanted a child.” Reina replies, her gaze flitting to a vast moon dial in the center of the room, checking the time. “So I told her that it was my duty, but more than that, that it was my greatest wish to be a mother. Then she asked why she should grant my wish over the thousands of other mothers in the world, and I explained that my child wouldn’t merely be for myself, but for all the united packs. My child would become King one day, and not having one meant risking a power vacuum.”

Reina pauses then, clearly getting caught up in her memories. “When she told me that she would give me a baby I thought I might faint, but my joy was only temporary. Because next the Goddess shared her own story with me, the details of our world’s creation, the peril we would all be facing one day. She explained that there was no stopping this war, but that the child I bore might allow us to survive it.” Reina recalls, “I didn’t really understand, or know what to think. It was all too surreal.”

“Then the Goddess told me that I wouldn’t get to keep you. I was so angry and outraged, I demanded to know why on earth I would torture myself carrying a baby I’d be forced to give up… Reina’s lips go very thin as she nods slowly, with the bearing of one who does not wish to remember this at all, “And that’s when she explained that Xavier took me to bed that night, it would be her child in my womb, rather than my own. I would be like a surrogate for her and the King not that he ever knew anything about it.” She shrugs as she watches me, her eyes welling over again. “In some ways it made it much easier to give you up, because you weren’t truly mine.”

I shake my head, unable to stay seated a moment longer. I manage to hoist myself out of my chair and cross to her side. The idea of anyone asking a woman who cannot have children of her own to carry theirs is a cruelty beyond imagining. I can’t find any words to express the depth of my horror and sorrow for her, so I simply wrap my arms around reina and squeeze. She gasps in surprise, but gradually returns my embrace, leaning into me.

–

“I tried not to love you, not to get attached.” Reina explains, weeping into my neck. “But I should have known better. Even humans fall in love with their babies before they’re born – and they aren’t bonded. I did have fun with you though, I loved being a living miracle, I held onto you as long as I possibly could. Then Silas and Pollux came to take you – I never knew where you went.” “And Xavier?” Roger interjects, “how much did he know?”

“None of it.” Reina reveals grimly. “After so many miscarriages, it came as no surprise when I told him the child didn’t survive.”

“So my father never even knew I existed?” I assess, my throat thick with emotion..

“I told him on his deathbed.” Reina shares. “We got through the next twenty–five years in a tense partnership. We were no longer lovers or even friends, but bound together by our roles as leaders. I

learned to feel safe with him again, and he learned to accept reality – though it took him a few years to stop flailing in protest. He was pleased Ella… when I told him about you, he said he wished he could have met you.”

I sniff as I process this information. “Did the Goddess tell you how I’m supposed to save our future?”

“No.” Reina dashes my hopes.“That, she will have to tell you herself.”

I untangle myself from her arms.“What do you mean?”

Reina gives me a wry smile, “You didn’t think she was going to miss your homecoming, did you?”

I can only blink, still not understanding. Then Pollux stands, “she’s here.”

 

Chapter 260

Seeing the Goddess again is like something out of a dream. Naturally, my memories of our first meeting have been restored, but the events my hypnosis sessions uncovered feel slightly different from my other memories – less solid, more malleable and illusive. This feels much the same. There’s a surreal ambience in the air as the doors to the inner temple swing open, and it only grows stronger when the Goddess appears.

At first, there is only light. It pours forth from the expanding entryway in a blinding aura, forcing me to avert my gaze. Beside me, I feel Cora throw up a hand to block this show of celestial brilliance – not that it does much good. I feel as though my skin is on fire, and then a strange pressure deep in my chest. I feel as though something inside me is cracking open, and I instinctively fold in on myself, trying to keep it closed. Philippe is muttering worried questions by my side, his strong hand on my elbow, but I can’t bring myself to look at him.

My attention is locked on the being now framed in the doorway of the gleaming inner temple. The overwhelming light has dissipated now, leaving only the beautiful woman from my memory. I lift my gaze to her face, still grimacing with the effort of keeping myself in one piece. She’s exactly as I remember her: too magnificent to take in all at once, and yet so fascinating that I could easily get lost in a single one of her features and never grow tired. There’s the same starlit hair, galaxy eyes and pearly skin. But this time when our eyes meet, I feel a new pulse from that cracked place inside me. Oddly enough, it reminds me of my bond with Rafe.

The shock of this realization staggers me, so much so that I lose control and stop trying to cement the burgeoning crack. At once the walls seem to collapse, and suddenly I’m feeling a third bond in addition to Sinclair and Rafe’s. It’s filled to bursting with love and power, and a great many things I don’t understand. The link is so replete with magic that I feel a bit drunk, but I know I have to keep going.

My wolf inches forward, testing the new channel in our consciousness. It’s every bit as strong as those I share with my son and mate, though alarmingly vast and unfamiliar. I know the feel of my boys with my eyes closed, but pinpointing a single shape, emotion or thought from the Goddess is impossible. It’s daunting – but not unpleasant. I can feel so much warmth and affection radiating towards me, with the same sort of unconditional fervor I feel for my unborn pup. It fills me with a sense of safety, security and belonging, in ways no one else has been able to provide for me. Tentatively, I send a single question through the bond and hold my breath as I wait for an answer. The Goddess hasn’t looked away from me once since she arrived, and now she floats forward, her cascading gown trailing over the hallowed ground. “Yes, Ella.” She confirms with a tender smile, her shimmering hand cupping my cheek. “This is what it feels like to have a mother.”

Her touch is so soft and nurturing that tears sting my eyes, and all I want to do is throw myself into her arms. I don’t, unsure of what is appropriate and how I’m even supposed to behave in this situation. However the Goddess obviously senses it, because she wraps me up in her willowy arms, “I’ve been waiting for this day for longer than you know.” She murmurs in my ear. “Even before you were conceived, I have always looked forward to meeting you, my daughter.”

“But we already met.” I sniffie, nuzzling her shoulder and taking the opportunity to breathe in her scent. I almost regret this, because her aroma is a terrifying blend of everything in the universe.

All the life her light created is now embedded in her pores, competing for attention and rushing to the surface in microscopic bursts. There are plant and animal smells, as well as those of minerals and chemicals – and then about a million things I don’t think I want to know about.

“I know,” The Goddess answers, pulling away to look down at me with a serene smile. “You were so tiny and precious, but it was only a blip in time. I want to know the woman you’ve become.”

“Will we have the opportunity for that?” I inquire warily, “Reina, Silas and Pollux keep telling me I’m too late.”

She sighs, “We have a lot to talk about, my darling. And you’ve only just arrived. Wouldn’t you like a rest?”

“No.” I counter, tempted to put some distance between us, but unable to release her. “I’m too hyper to ever sleep now.I need to know what’s happening.”

“Very well then.” The Goddess concedes, “Reina?” She sweeps her hand towards the inner temple, and one by one we file inside. I introduce Cora, Roger and Philippe, and I’m infinitely grateful that they continue to refuse to leave me alone with these mysterious characters, no matter how many times they’re asked.

“Where should we begin?” Reina inquires once we’re all seated and drinking a fresh brew of tea. “I know where.” I declare. I’ve been keeping the former queen in my periphery this entire time, and I didn’t miss the pain in her eyes when she witnessed our reunion. “I want you to know that I think what you did to Reina is horrible.” I begin, leveling a scowl at my mother. “To grant her wish only to rip it all away? It’s unforgivable. And why did you tell me Reigna was one of my mothers if she wasn’t?”

The Goddess arches one silvery brow, cocking her head to the side as she observes me. “Wasn’t she? She loved you, sheltered and carried you. She sacrificed her body and her freedom once she lost her husband, and all for you.”

“You know what I mean.” I counter, taking Reina’s hand in my own. I wish I had a way to communicate my appreciation and affection for the she– wolf beyond small touches, but at this point it’s the best I can do.”

“I needed you to find this place, Ella.” The Goddess replies, her voice light and airy. “You had to come looking for Reina, so that we could have this meeting. So that we can begin your training.” “I don’t understand.” I confess, reaching for Cora with my free hand. She quickly cuddles up to my side,

surrounding me with support. “Why couldn’t you carry me yourself?” I inquire, glancing apologetically at Reina. “Not because I wanted you too… I just don’t understand?”

“I do not create life in the same way humans and shifters do.” The Goddess shares. “I can dream entire worlds into being, but the only being capable of impregnating me would be the God of Darkness. And it would have meant an immortal child – one who could never know what it truly means to be human.”

“Oh.” I muse, wondering if any of this will ever begin sounding believable.

“The world doesn’t need another god with more power than they know what to do with.” The Goddess continues, looking around at us all. “I needed a child with shifter blood and my power in one. So the best I could do was implanting one of my eggs in Reina, and giving Xavier a push to her bed.”

“And everything that happened after?” I ask, not trying to disguise the pain in my voice. “The orphanage? Binding my wolf? Those visits from Silas and Pollux! What on earth was the deal with that knife in the forest?”

–

“You know some of the answers already.” My mother reminds me softly. “We needed you to know what it meant to be human, but it wasn’t enough to merely leave you with them and binding your wolf. We knew you had my power. We knew you had the experiences to give you perspective – but we had to find out if you were capable of uniting our worlds, and that part has nothing to do with power or perspective. It’s about you. We didn’t know your heart or who you would become.” “But I thought this was the whole reason I was born!” I exclaim, needing to make sense of this. “It was a hope.” The Goddess replies. “I am not omniscient, and I do not control the workings of men. I knew a child of your lineage and experience would have the potential to save your people, but the rest was up to you. We needed to see if you would fight, if you would protect and sacrifice your own needs for others. Luckily you grew up to be the woman I hoped, but none of this is guaranteed.”

“Alright,” I swallow, deciding to wait and process all of this later. It’s simply too much to compute in this moment. “So… what training? What am I supposed to do? If it’s not about magic –”

“If we can win the war, your heart will bring our people together, not your power.” She answers evenly, “but to win the war? Damon is not as weak as you may think, Ella. Your mate is going to need your help, and that means learning how to use your magic – and we hardly have any time left.”

“I still don’t understand.” I whimper, wishing Sinclair was here.

–

“That’s okay, my love.” The Goddess runs her fingers through my hair almost absentmindedly. “All will be clear in time. Now – Are you ready to begin?”