Natalie POV
The profound, intoxicating sweetness of the healed bond rippled through my veins like liquid gold, driving the last remnants of the subterranean chill from my bones. Our fur remained pressed together, a stark contrast of midnight black and moonlight silver under the blinding dawn sun. Richard’s heavy, rhythmic breaths vibrated against my ribs, his massive beast completely subdued by the ancient, undeniable pull of the primal lineage.
But the peace was a fragile illusion, a momentary pause in a court surrounded by executioners.
“Natalie,” Selene whispered, her emerald gaze sharp within my mind as she monitored the environment. “The vanguard is recovering. Their fear is turning into strategic positioning. We cannot stay shifted in the open.”
A sharp, defensive click from the
