He breathes in. Deep. Like he's trying to pull my scent into his lungs and keep it there.
And then he sighs.
Soft. Content. Satisfied.
Like he's finally found something he's been searching for his whole life.
My arms tighten around him. Automatic. Instinctive.
Mine.
The thought pulses through me. Primal. Undeniable. Coming from somewhere so deep I can't fight it.
Mine.
Zero and Bane are still staring. I can feel the weight of their gazes. The questions. The confusion.
The same pull I'm feeling reflected in their eyes.
"He should sleep it off," I say. Force my voice to stay level. Controlled. "The fever will break by morning."
The lie tastes bitter.
I don't know if the fever will break. Don't know what's wrong with him. Don't know anything except that every instinctI have is screaming at me to keep him here, keep him close, never let him go.
"You keeping him here?" Bane asks. His voice is careful. Like he's trying to understand something he can't quite grasp.
"For now."
"Dad and Margot—"
"Won't be back until late." I keep my eyes on Max. On the rise and fall of his chest. On the way his face has relaxed in unconsciousness. "By then, he'll be fine."
Another lie.
"And if he's not?" Bane presses.
"Then I'll call them."
Won't.
Can't.
Not until I understand what's happening. Not until I figure out why Max smells like this and why every alpha instinct I have is roaring to life for the first time in my life.
Bane doesn't look convinced. His jaw is tight. Eyes dark with worry.
But he doesn't argue.
Zero's still watching Max. Eyes locked on his face. On the way he's curled against me. Seeking comfort. Seeking safety.
Seeking me.
"Come on," I say. Gentle my voice. Try to sound normal. "Let me lay him back down. You two can go."
They hesitate.
Both of them reluctant to leave. Drawn to Max in a way that should alarm me but doesn't.
