The Triquetra Bond

Chapter 16

As the night started to wind down, exhaustion settled over Eimear like a heavy blanket. The evening had been wonderful but draining—this was the most she had interacted with pack members since her failed transformation, and it had taken its toll.

Aidan, ever perceptive, leaned in close and murmured, “You’re tired, aren’t you? Let’s call it a night.”

Ronan caught the weariness in her eyes and nodded. “Good idea. It’s been a big day for all of us.”

Eimear smiled gratefully at them and went to find her parents. “Thank you for a wonderful evening,” she said sincerely.

Declan’s smile was warm, and Maeve pulled her into a quick hug. “Goodnight, love. Rest well,” Maeve said with motherly affection.

Eimear watched as her mates expertly disengaged from the crowd of curious pack members still eager to talk. She marveled at their tact, the way they handled everyone with ease, and her heart swelled with pride.

When they finally reached her, Ronan took her hand and kissed it lightly. “Bedtime, little mate,” he said with a playful grin.

Eimear felt her cheeks heat up but smiled anyway. “Bedtime,” she agreed softly, relieved to leave the bustling room behind.

The three of them made their way back to their shared quarters. The quiet of the house was a welcome reprieve after the lively celebration.

As they entered the room, Eimear realized with growing mortification that her mates were about to see her in her pajamas. She rummaged through her drawer, pulling out the most neutral option—a Harry Potter t-shirt and matching shorts. Why didn’t I think of this sooner? she berated herself.

Pointing toward the bathroom, she said quickly, “I’ll be right back.”

Inside, she stared at the pajamas with dismay. “Of all nights, why couldn’t I have one normal pair of pajamas?” she muttered, changing quickly. The mirror reflected her flushed face, the oversized t-shirt hanging loose on her small frame. “It’s fine. It’s just sleep,” she told herself before stepping back out.

Her breath caught as her eyes landed on Aidan and Ronan. Both had changed into loose shorts, their chests bare.

Aidan stood near the bed, his lean, toned frame practically glowing in the dim light. The faint shimmer of his Seelie heritage gave him an otherworldly grace that made him look almost untouchable. Ronan, on the other hand, exuded raw strength—his broad shoulders and sculpted chest spoke of power barely restrained.

Eimear’s heart thudded in her chest. Her gaze lingered until Ronan caught her eye, his smirk both amused and teasing.

“Like what you see, little mate?” he asked, his voice warm with playful heat.

“I wasn’t—” she stammered, quickly averting her eyes, her cheeks burning.

Aidan crossed the room to her, his steps deliberate and calming. “You’re staring,” he said gently, a soft smile tugging at his lips.

She waved a hand defensively. “I was just... surprised!”

Ronan chuckled and stepped closer, the teasing in his gaze softening into something warmer. “Don’t worry. We’re not offended.”

Aidan reached out, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “In fact, we should be the ones marveling at you. You’re stunning—even in Harry Potter pajamas.”

Eimear groaned, burying her face in her hands. “You two are impossible.”

Ronan laughed, prying her hands away gently. “Impossible but honest,” he said, his voice low and steady. Tugging her toward the bed, he added, “Come on, little mate. It’s been a long day.”

Despite her initial nerves, exhaustion outweighed any lingering embarrassment. Eimear climbed into bed, sinking into the comforting embrace of the soft mattress.

The bed dipped on either side as her mates joined her, their warmth a soothing presence. Aidan draped an arm lightly across her waist, his voice soft. “Goodnight, Eimear.”

“Sweet dreams, little mate,” Ronan added, his tone a gentle rumble as he turned off the bedside lamp.

As the room fell silent, Aidan turned his head slightly, his voice a whisper. “You still awake?”

“Yeah,” Ronan replied just as quietly.

“How do you think today went?”

Ronan’s response was thoughtful. “Better than I expected. The pack’s curious, but there’s no hostility. What worries me more is the feeling I had back at the castle. Like someone was watching us.”

Aidan’s expression darkened. “I felt it too. I didn’t want to say anything in front of Eimear, but... something’s coming. We’ll need to start her training soon.”

Ronan nodded, the bed creaking softly with the motion. “Tomorrow, we can put a plan together. Something structured but manageable.”

“Agreed,” Aidan said.

For a moment, they lay in silence, the weight of their shared responsibilities settling over them.

Then, Aidan asked quietly, “How are you feeling about the... lack of physical intimacy so far? I know werewolves are naturally very tactile.”

Ronan let out a breath, his tone thoughtful. “Surprisingly, I’m okay. Don’t get me wrong, I can’t wait to get closer to both of you. But my wolf is... calm. It’s like he’s submitting to her strength, her presence. I’ve never felt anything like it before. What about you?”

Aidan considered the question, surprised at his own answer. “Fae are usually very driven when it comes to intimacy with their mates. The need is always there, but with Eimear, it feels... muted. Like it’s waiting for her readiness. It’s hard to explain, but I think it might be tied to her being the Cosantóir. Maybe it’s her magic, her bond, protecting her in its own way.”

Aidan shifted slightly, his hand brushing Ronan’s. Their bond flared faintly, a quiet pulse of warmth between them.

Ronan let out a soft chuckle, breaking the silence. “Feel that?”

Aidan smiled, the connection between them undeniable. “Yeah.”

Their gazes met in the dim light, unspoken understanding passing between them. No words were needed—they both knew their bond was deepening, growing stronger with every passing moment.

Aidan’s hand rested lightly on Ronan’s. “We’ll be ready,” he murmured, his voice full of quiet determination.

Ronan’s fingers curled around Aidan’s briefly before he let go, his gaze softening as he looked down at Eimear, still sleeping peacefully between them. “For her. Always.”

“Always,” Aidan echoed, his voice steady.