"Mommy, did that gentleman buy all these toys and snacks in the room for me?" Phillip asked, his big eyes blinking with curiosity.
"He did. Do you like them?" I asked, ruffling his hair.
"I love them. But... what is he to you?"
I sat down and told him the story of Augustine and me all over again.
As I finished, a genuine smile finally returned to his face.
"Well, this gentleman seems way more dependable than Daddy ever was. Mommy, you should let him mark you. I think you'll be happy with him."
"I happen to agree."
I hadn't noticed Augustine returning to the room, but there he was, looking at Phillip with an expression of pure satisfaction.
At that moment, a brisk knock sounded at the door.
"Pardon the interruption, Your Majesty. The Alpha of the Moonhowl Pack has learned of your p
