"If you are still needed?" His silver eyes flashed with confusion. "What does that mean? Leah, we are mates. You aren't going to deny that. Not after that kiss. Surely you know—"
I reached out and grabbed his hand, stopping him mid-sentence. His skin was warm against mine, the tingles of the bond racing up my arm. "I will return as long as there is a reason for me to return."
"There will always be a reason." His voice was fierce. "You are the reason."
"Darien." I sighed, knowing I needed to tell him the truth. Needed to stop dancing around it. "I know we are mates. My wolf confirmed it."
"Thank the gods." Relief flooded his expression, and he pulled me closer, his hands coming up to frame my face. "Then you understand. You feel it too. This connection between us, it's—"
I shook my hea
