He didn't ask what was wrong. He just crossed the room and pulled me into his chest. His scent enveloped me. Pine smoke and steel and safety.
"No one is sending you back." His voice was firm. Certain. "Anyone who wants to take you from here goes through me first."
I believed every word.
It was the safest I had ever felt.
The memory fractures as another wave hits. A drowsy rumble vibrates from Malcolm's chest, yanking me from my memories, bringing me back to the bed. To this alpha who isn't Ragon.
My chest twists with something that might be guilt.
I left them. I'm here with Malcolm and Finn and Ragon's pack is falling apart without me.
Or maybe they're fine. Maybe Marie is everything they needed and I was just taking up space.
I don't know which possibility hurts more.
The AC kicks on, making the air drift around the room. I smell it.
Juniper… not pine. Not muted anymore.
Alex.
My head snaps toward the door. I can see the shadow of his body in the gap underneath.
He's right there.
A cramp hits hard and my scent spikes, sending out pure omega distress.
I want my alpha.
He's on the other side of a door.
I crawl across the bed. Drop to the floor. My legs barely hold me as I make my way to the door.
When I reach it I try the handle.
Locked.
"Alex." My voice cracks.
Silence.
Then movement. His shadow shifts.
"I'm here," he says strained, low and rough.
"Come in." I press my hand flat against the door. "I need you."
"I can't."
"Why?" I'm crying now. I can’t help it. "Why won't you help me?"
"Vee." He sounds wrecked. "I'm protecting us both by staying out here."
"I don't understand."
"You will. When your heat clears. I'll explain everything."
