He blinked, clearly processing.
Power never meant control to me. Real power was awareness—and choice.
When he still looked lost, I helped him along. I’m kind like that.
“I’ll marry you if you let me throat-punch you once during every heat.”
His smile spread slowly before he shot upright and grabbed the ring.
“It’s a deal,” he said, sliding it onto my finger.
It stopped halfway.
“When did you buy the ring?” I asked, tugging my hand back to admire the sparkling oval stone.
“Months ago,” he said, frowning as he scratched his head.
My hands and feet were swollen. Most of my shoes were torture.
I glanced at the French toast and fresh berries before reaching for my tea.
At least he tried, Bouda offered.
He was still frowning when he sat on the bed.
He’s learning, I said with a smile.
And I kept the ring on my finger.
Chapter 63
Blaidd
She seemed happier with the French toast than the ring, but then my gaze dropped to her belly—and to how long I’d remained knotted inside her that morning. I added another slice of French toast to her plate before cutting into mine.
“Are you trying to make me fatter?” she asked, pointing her fork at me.
I felt her amusement through the bond this time and relaxed.
“I’m feeding my babies,” I said, loading berries and toast onto my fork.
It wasn’t so hard, was it? Fenrir asked.
I listened as she chatted about what Anji had bought the twins. About moving into our new home next week. What Lielit didn’t know was that I’d also bought a second house further down the street—for her family.
No. It wasn’t, I replied. I never thought I’d bow to anyone.
Fenrir hummed, and the bond pulsed.
I could feel her—and Bouda—just as she could feel us. It was new, and we were still learning. There was no hiding from one another with the bond in place.
It made us stronger.
Fenrir said he felt revitalised.
Perhaps that was the result of complete freedom.
???
