Alexander leaned back against the bed's headrest, closing his eyes. "With Uncle Francis's death, Ryan and I are the oldest vampires still alive. I cannot let him influence the direction of our people and I am the only one with a strength that equals his own, and stop him taking his cruel one-sided decisions." His breath stirred Tanya's hair and she cuddled closer to him. She ached at the pain in his voice.
"Then you need all the help you can get to stop him." She pulled his hand so it reached around her and rested on her stomach.
He gripped her hand. "I do. I was scared and selfish and tried to keep you safe at the expense of the success of the battle. You are right, though. You have a talent that will be invaluable in the battle. Without you, my sirelings could end up hurt or worse." A
