She slips out the door with a laugh.
This fucking woman. She’ll be the death of me.
Chapter
Twenty-Three
“Ithink we should have a feast,” Kitara announces, her hand resting on her growing belly as she studies the scattered maps and reports covering the council table.
I look up from the reconnaissance photos, confused by the non sequitur. “A feast? Now? We’re planning a rescue mission, not a celebration.”
Ryker’s mate smiles, that serene expression that always makes me wonder what future she’s glimpsed with her seer abilities. “Precisely why we need one. The pack has been on edge since your return, everyone preparing for battle, worrying about what comes next. A night of good food and music will do wonders for morale.”
“Plus,” she adds with a knowing look, “it would give everyone a chance to properly welcome Kier to Shadowmist.”
I suppress a wince but my wolf huffs in amusement, clearly more appreciative of the Alpha Female’s matchmaking than I am.
“Kitara’s right,” Ryker says, setting down the facility blueprints he’s been studying. “The pack needs this.”
I want to argue that we don’t have time for distractions, but I can see the wisdom in their suggestion. Wolves are packanimals—we draw strength from community and moments of connection that remind us of why we face danger together.
“Fine,” I concede. “When?”
“Tonight,” Kitara says decisively. “No point in waiting. We have enough food stored, and everyone could use the break from planning.”
“That’s… soon.”
“It’s exactly what’s needed.” She rises from her chair, her pregnancy making the movement slightly awkward. “I’ll handle the arrangements. You just make sure you’re there—and bring your nomad.”
“He’s not my nomad,” I protest automatically.
Kitara’s knowing smile makes me flush. “Of course not. My mistake.”
After she leaves, Ryker turns to me with a more serious expression. “She worries about you, you know. We both do.”
I straighten the stack of photos in front of me, avoiding his mismatched gaze. “I’m fine.”
“Are you?” He leans forward. “Because from where I’m sitting, you’ve been running yourself ragged since you got back, barely taking time to heal, and doing everything possible to avoid being alone with Kier.”
The direct hit makes me flinch. “I’ve been busy. There’s a lot to organize.”
“True. But that’s not why you’re avoiding him.”
I look up then, meeting his gaze squarely. “With all due respect, Alpha, my personal life is my own business.”
“Normally, I’d agree,” he says calmly. “But when it affects pack dynamics, it becomes my concern.”
“How is this affecting pack dynamics?”
“You’re distracted. Off-balance. And the pack notices, whether you realize it or not.” He pauses, his expression softening slightly. “Plus, I like him. He’s good for you.”
The simple assessment catches me off guard. “You barely know him.”
“I know enough. I know he came back for you when he could have escaped alone. I know he looks at you like you’re the moon itself.” Ryker leans back in his chair. “And I know what it’s like to find your mate when you least expect it.”
“How many times do I have to tell you people that he’s not—” I start, then stop, unwilling to voice the lie. My wolf stirs restlessly, aware of the truth I’m trying to deny. “It’s complicated.”
“Life usually is,” Ryker agrees. “Question is, do you think he’s worth the complication?”
