“Baby, you’re going to be okay,” I whispered, relief flooding me. I fought back my tears. His eyes metmine, confusion clear in them as he looked around, tensing.
“They’re coming,” he croaked.
“Who is?” Magdalene asked sharply.
“The wolves of fire,” he murmured.
I exchanged looks with Mom, turning back to him. His eyes closed, and he took a deep breath. Anything Dante said that wasn’t in normal conversation was not something to sideline. His intuition was far stronger than mine or Liam’s.
“I see the boy is special,” Magdalene said keenly.
I did trust her, but I wasn’t completely comfortable with them knowing about my son’s ability. Dante knew I was having twin baby girls when I had first found out I was pregnant. Janaina had given me the amulet that Dante always wore, and she must have seen it. I was sure she had her assumptions.
“Delsanra,” I called, turning towards the white-haired beauty. She looked at me and gave me a small, weak smile.
“Sorry, I just caused you more work. I messed up, and I wasn’t able to help him.” She looked at Dante, reaching over and stroking his hair. For once, he didn’t blush or pout. Instead, he just stared ahead, his face deathly and his eyes dark with thought.
“They won’t be able to do much, but at least they are conscious for now. You are on a short time leash, Queen Kiara.” Magdalene’s words held the weight of reality in them. If I’d had any doubt, it was gone. I had to do something. “As the Lycan King asked, he wished for some protective spells to be placed around the Night Walker Pack. So, without further ado, we should head there. I’m sure it will be safer for you all as well,” she continued.
I nodded. They were right. Returning to the pack would mean better security, and from there, I would decide what to do. I kissed Dante’s cheek before giving Delsanra a hug.
“Want to talk to Ahren and Sienna?” I asked her softly. Concern filled her eyes, and she nodded.
“How long have we been out?”
“A day,” I replied, taking the water bottle from Mom and holding it to her lips as Mom helped Dante drink.
“Not too long.” She seemed relieved. She was a mother, too, and her pups were still so young.
“I will pass the message to Alejandro,” I said, deciding to reach out to the nearest of our men who formed a chain of communication that reached each wolf that was out there searching.
Let Alejandro know we are returning home with the witches. Julio and Phillip will remain to keep an eye on the villa in case something else odd shows up. Also, let him and Rayhan know that Dante and Delsanra are now conscious.
Understood, Luna. That is great news.
Night had fallen, and I had just put Skyla and Dante to bed. Mom would watch them; as much as I didn’t want to leave them, I had to. I had made my decision. Delsanra was still there; however, Raihana had broughther pups to see her and to check on Skyla and Dante.
I felt better being at home in the comfort and safety of our mansion. Alejandro had called at one point to speak to Dante, and I had filled him in on everything the witches had said. They had put some protective spells in place before they’d left with a promise to look into the Crimson King.
It was silent, with everyone having settled down for the night. Mom would sleep in Dante’s room. I was meant to be sleeping with Skyla, however, I would tell Serena before I left and order her to stay with Skyla. I brushed my fingers through Dante’s hair, having slipped a small note under his pillow, letting him know I’d be back soon. I was about to leave the room when Mom stepped out of the adjoining bathroom.
“Kia.” I turned as she towelled her vibrant red hair with a navy towel.
“Hmm?” She didn’t speak. Her eyes were locked with mine as if she was peering into my soul.You can’t hide things from your mother, right?
“Are you heading to bed?” She asked after a moment. That was not what she was about to say…
“Yeah, I’m just going to shower and then get some rest.” I turned the door handle.
“Kia…”
I looked at her, and I knew at that moment that she knew I was going to go. I didn’t reply as we stared at each other. I saw her concern and worry, too, but mixed in with it was the conflict of letting it slide.
“I am not a child, nor am I just a trophy on my king’s arm… I am a fighter, a queen, and, above all, a mother,” I replied quietly, staring at the handle that I was still holding onto.
“I know. Take care of yourself,” she replied quietly.
I didn’t reply, casting her a small smile and leaving the room. I returned to my own, where Skyla was fast asleep. I sat down on my bed, brushed my fingers through her long hair, and sighed heavily.
