"Uncle Thorne says they're bossy but usually mean well." Another yawn. "Mama, are we safe here?"
The question catches me off guard. "Why do you ask?"
"You seemed scared earlier. When the helicopters came." His mismatched eyes are too perceptive. "Are bad people looking for us?"
I smooth his hair back, choosing words carefully. "Some people want Mama to do things she doesn't want to do. But the Alpha here, and Uncle Thorne, and lots of other people are making sure those people can't make us do anything. So yes, baby. We're safe here."
"Good." His eyes are already drifting closed. "Love you, Mama."
"Love you too, Ash. More than anything."
He's asleep within minutes, exhaustion finally claiming him. I watch him for a long moment, this perfect little person who has no idea how much his e
