Seraphina meets his gaze and gives a slight nod, acknowledging his words but remaining silent. With that, Nero steps back, and in a sudden, fluid motion, his form shifts. The air around him swirls in a dark vortex, and in the next moment, he’s transformed into his true form—a magnificent black Puca, his sleek, muscular body gleaming under the dimming light. Without a backward glance, he gallops toward the river, his hooves barely making a sound as he moves. Then, as if the water itself parts for him, he plunges into the river and vanishes beneath its surface, leaving only ripples in his wake.
I turn to Seraphina with a small smile and walk over to her. Gently, I hook my arm through hers, drawing her closer to Lukas and Nesrin.
“Lukas, Nesrin, this is—”
“The female dragon you were sent to find.”
I’m momentarily caught off guard by her knowledge and can only nod slowly in response.
“Yes. How do you know?”
Kai rubs the back of his neck, flashing a weary grin. “Yeah, when Penn and I came here looking for Nero, the Kitsune happened to read Penn’s mind and, well, let us know about the female dragon shifter.”
I blink, the realization sinking in. “Oh,” I reply lamely. “So, everyone knew why I was in Faerie . . . except for me.”
“Seems like it,” Lukas murmurs, his voice carrying a hint of amusement. “But you’re safe now. And you’re welcome to stay as long as you need.” His eyes flicker to Seraphina, and though he stands tall and confident, there’s a subtle respect in his tone.
Seraphina doesn’t falter as she meets Lukas’s gaze, her posture proud—regal, even—as she inclines her head slightly. “Thank you for allowing us safe passage on your land. My name is Seraphina,” she says, her voice calm but laced with the weight of someone who commands power effortlessly.
Nesrin steps forward, a curious smile tugging at her lips. “We’re just happy you made it here safely. We have a spare house for you two, and a room in ours for you, Seraphina, if that suits you. Dinner will be in the communal area tonight. You’re more than welcome to join us.”
Chapter forty
Ashwiyaa
“Don’t hide who you are. Be bold. Be proud.”
The sun begins to set, casting a warm golden glow across the rippling water. The gentle breeze carries the sweet scent of wildflowers, mingling with the earthy aroma of the riverbank. Behind me, the Northwest pack is gathered, their presence a comforting backdrop to the scene before me.
There are over fifty shifters living on the property, a fact that initially surprised me. I’d overheard in passing that the beta and a Kitsune owned the bordering properties, turning this area into an extremely secluded sanctuary. It’s a place where the pack can live in peace, away from the prying eyes of the outside world, a place where they can be themselves without fear.
Myeyes track the children playing by the water’s edge, their carefree laughter filling the air. They chase one another, their small forms darting around like quicksilver, splashing in the shallow water and throwing themselves into the simple joys of the moment. Their energy is infectious, bringing a smile to my lips as I watch them.
Out of nowhere, a pang of longing hits me in the chest, sharp and sudden, leaving a lingering ache that I can’t quite shake. It’s a feeling I didn’t expect, one that I don’t know what to do with. Watching those children, so full of life and innocence, stirs something deep within me—something I haven’t let myself think about, ever.
Turning away from the children, my gaze travels over the group, and I spot Seraphina sitting in the grass with Talon and Astraea. Neither are talking out loud, but I can tell they’re communicating. I could pry if I wanted to, but I won’t. It’s a line I’ve never crossed. Yes, I can read emotions and flick through memories, but I refuse to access people’s inner thoughts.
Seraphina must say something amusing because Astraea tips her head back and giggles, the sound light and pure like chimes in the wind. The young dragon huffs out a small cloud of mist, his tiny wings fluttering with excitement. Watching them, a smile tugs at my lips. Nesrin and Lukas’s daughter is going to be the most protected child, surrounded by so many strong allies and loved ones who would do anything to keep her safe.
My gaze shifts to Nesrin, and I still can’t quite believe she’s pregnant. When I saw her three months ago, I hadn’t noticed anything, but now it’s unmistakable. By the looks of it, she’s at least six months along. The change is striking, and it’s clear that everyone around her is keenly aware of it too. People naturally gravitate toward her, offering their attention and care, doting on her as if she were a queen carrying the future of the realm.
Butit’s more than just the pregnancy that draws people to Nesrin. There’s something about her, an aura of authority, power, and protection that she wears effortlessly. Even now, as she stands in the midst of the group, her hand resting gently on her rounded belly, she exudes an air of command. I’ve noticed the alpha keeps her in his sights the entire time, and the level of devotion and protection that radiates from him brings a grin to my lips.
Sensing someone approach, I turn and see the Kitsune coming my way. If anyone is on par with my abilities, it’s him. His warm-brown eyes crinkle as he smiles at me.
“Kai is just calling Salena. He said he’d be back soon.”
“Thanks, Gabe.”
He nods his head. “What had you smiling before?”
“Oh, just how your alpha has Nesrin constantly in his sights. It’s kinda adorable.”
Gabe barks out a laugh. “Don’t let him hear you call him adorable.”
I bite my lip to stop my grin. “It’s so good to be back.”
“Are you okay?” Gabe asks, softly reading me well.
