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“It will keep out more than hellhounds, if necessary. But I don’t want any trouble here today.”
“Luca.” The red-headed witch turned to face them. With an ethereal grace, she walked toward them. Her emerald green dress contrasted with her pale skin and blue eyes. She smiled at Cassia, and then reached for Luca. She gave a gentle tug on his arm. “Please forgive my ever-over-protective husband. We’ve had a few incidents lately.”
Julian exchanged a glance with Greyson. “We appreciate you seeing us. And I promise you there will not be any trouble today.”
“It’s okay. Please. Come sit.” Samantha gestured to a large black velvet semicircular sofa. She and Luca sat in matching wingback chairs directly across from them.
Julian sat first and held onto Cassia’s hand as she slid next to him. He nodded at Greyson who took his place by her other side.
The Alpha looked to the pink ceiling illuminated by candlelight. “Nice set up, you’ve got here. Salt, yes?”
“Indeed. Himalayan salt panels imported from blessed mines in Pakistan. It’s beautiful isn’t it?” She smiled. “Of course, I’m working to seal every pore of the room. Keep it well protected against outsiders.”
“You said you’ve had some incidents?” Julian asked.
“Yes, well.” Samantha looked to Luca who nodded. “With Ilsbeth regaining her power, having been to Hell and whatnot…I’m taking care to make sure she doesn’t become a problem.”
“It appears the failed memory stage of her recovery is over. Is she back entertaining demons?” Greyson held up a finger. “No, no, no. Just half-demons. I suppose that’s okay?”
“So I hear. It’s not lost on me that she used to head the coven,” Samantha commented. “But it’s been some time since she was the High Priestess. I don’t want her corrupting any other witches.”
“You’re wise to protect yourself.” Julian agreed the witch remained dangerous. Ilsbeth had always been savvy.
“I’ve heard she’s on the party circuit. Enjoying her carefree post-Hell lifestyle. Let’s hope that’s where she stays,” Greyson commented.
“Momma witch better stay away from the wolves.” Rafe crossed his arms over his chest.
“You have her blood?” Samantha pinned Rafe with a cold stare.
“Yes but…hey, I’m nothing like her. It was mostly Viktor who saved me. And he’s good. Mostly anyway. No vampire blood or witch blood for that matter is going to take over my true nature.”
“Which is?” she asked.
“Wolf, of course.” Rafe shrugged, his voice drew quiet.
“He’s with me,” Julian told her. “He’s good.”
“That’s right. He is,” Greyson agreed.
“But is he? He has her blood,” Samantha noted.
“We didn’t come here today to talk about Rafe—” Julian began.
“No, Jules. She’s right. I mean…I feel fine but…can you tell?” Rafe whispered to Samantha.
“Give me your hands,” she directed.
Rafe looked to Julian for approval. The Alpha had been certain of his innocence. While the young hybrid edged toward the wild, he’d always submitted, never allowing the bloodthirst to rule him. He’d been born a wolf. He’d forever be a wolf…someday an Alpha.
“You do this for you. But I know who you are, Rafe. You’re a good person. Ilsbeth’s blood only gave you the magick you needed to heal. Trust me on that,” Julian told him. “But you can do what’s right for you.”
“I’ve gotta know now.” Rafe stood and walked to the witch. “For the record, this wasn’t supposed to be about me today.”
“It’s okay,” she assured him, extending her hands toward him. “Sometimes we all need assurance.”
Julian’s beast released a low growl. Easy.
“It’s all right, Alpha. Your wolf is safe with me.” Samantha stood and placed her hands onto his palms. Rafe looked to Julian who nodded. You’re okay. Your Alpha will protect you. In the moment, Julian recognized Rafe as someone he’d never known…beta…pack. Mine.
