“He’s young and arrogant. Regardless, I’d like you to come with me. We can appeal to the Lords’ sensibilities and hope they see reason.”
“What if Dario challenges you?” I’d never seen Rowan in a true fight. He charmed his way out of most conflicts, unlike the other testosterone-laden Lords. None of them were slouches in the physical prowess department or they wouldn’t hold or maintain so much power. If Dario pushed things, I had no doubt Rowan could easily take him down.
“It’s our land, as you said. He’ll have to challenge us both, and I’m not sure he will.”
The thought intrigued me. “It’s been a while since I’ve kicked someone’s ass.”
Rowan snorted. “There’s the feisty Evie I know.”
“Caelan will be there tomorrow.”
Rowan inhaled. “He will. I understand if you don’t want to go. Being with me will send a statement. If you aren’t ready, I’m happy to attend without you.”
“I’m not worried about being seen with you.”
The tension in his form relaxes. “I’m happy to hear that.”
“Caelan may not react well. I don’t want to make any problems for you.”
He nuzzled my ear. “I’m well equipped to handle Caelan.” His warm breath against my ear sent a shiver down my spine. My neck arched, and I froze, embarrassment heating my skin.
“Oh,” Rowan breathed. “Your ear is sensitive. Duly noted.” His teeth gently clamp onto the lobe, the flick of his tongue dragging a low moan from my throat.
I had no idea such a small touch could draw such a visceral response. Every nerve ending was on fire. That spot in my chest heated, a flicker of warmth floating between us, and I felt Rowan’s desire, how much he wanted me.
Rowan tilted my neck and pressed a kiss below my ear. The urge to turn around and throw myself at him is almost overwhelming. His hands stayed locked at my waist, but his lips kept busy, teasing and tasting until I was a quivering mess of need.
“Rowan,” I whispered.
“Hmm.”
“We have to stop.”
“You aren’t doing anything.”
A breathless laugh escaped me.
“Just stay right here, and I’ll let you know when I’m finished.” He smiled against my neck.
I tilted my head back and peered up at him. Rowan looked more relaxed than I’d ever seen him. His eyes looked green in the low light, and his hair and clothes were rumpled. “I’ll stand by your side tomorrow,” I said quietly. “I’ll always stand by your side. I don’t know where things will take us, but you will always have an ally in me.”
“You can stay here as long as you want. I want you to stay at the Keep. Having you here makes everyone happy.”
I grinned up at him. “Your shifters are a bunch of hippies.”
Rowan snorted.
“Flower loving hippies.”
“My people have always been more sensitive to the earth’s call. Ever since you claimed the land with me, there hasn’t been a single fight break out in the dorms.” He grinned. “And I expect there to be a baby boom here in about nine months.”
I blinked in surprise. “Seriously?”
Rowan nodded. “Yes. Lots of noise complaints came in that same night.”
A giggle escaped me. “That’s a little embarrassing.”
“Are you kidding? I kept getting calls from the local police all night about the howling disrupting the populace. The entire Keep was blasting Barry Manilow. Total madness.”
