“I do not wish to be served.”She takes Branson’s hand as well as mine.
Branson glances at me, there’s a shot of nervousness in his eyes.This woman of ours can be unpredictable and bold.
“I wish,” she says and tips her chin.“That you all continue to live like this, at peace with one another, in an underworld without judgement or prejudice.Everyone free to be who they please with who they please.”
My stomach rolls with nerves as I look around the faces of these men I fear have wanted to judge me for so long.
“There are so few of you, compared to humans in this city,” she goes on.“You must stand together to survive.Be as one.”She pauses and looks from me to Branson.“I am honored to know you all, to know of your existence, and all I ask is that acceptance and tolerance become part of your mutual agreement with each other.It is the only way you will continue to not just survive but thrive.”
There is a rumble of mutterings, a few nods, and a couple of throat clearings.
“I believe I can speak for all,” Fraser says puffing up his chest and stepping forward, “when I welcome you, Maisey, as an honorary member of the underworld and family to all shifter clans.”He looks around the group, his eyes flashing in the darkness.“All say aye.”
“Aye.”The rumble of acknowledgement fills me with something very much like hope.
“And to Branson and Elias,” Fraser goes on.“We as a collective wish to thank you for your service tonight.You finished the kill and protected the woman who we all owe a great deal to.”
“It is our pleasure to be of help,” Branson says.“Always.”
Fraser nods at him.“Now I suggest we disband from this site before we arouse suspicion.”
“Good idea,” Isambard agrees gruffly.
They begin to wander off.Taktak and Demitri appear to be in earnest conversation, which is something I’d never thought I’d see between these two enemies.
“Elias,” Aslar says, appearing in front of us.“Are you sure you’re all unharmed?”
“Yes, we are fine.”I draw Maisey’s hand to my mouth and kiss her cool knuckles.“Perhaps just in need of warmth.”
“I am glad and...”He turns to Branson.“You should know, Branson, you are welcome in the wolves’ den anytime ...if you dare, that is.”
“If I dare?”Branson raises his eyebrows cockily.“I think I can handle a wolf or two.”
Aslar laughs.“I’m sure you can.I’m sure you can.”He squeezes Branson’s shoulder in an affectionate gesture and then holds out his hand to Maisey.
She takes it and they shake.
“If you ever need anything,” he says, “there are many men, powerful men, shifters, in this city who will be at your beck and call.”
“Thank you,” she says, “though I think Elias and Branson will insist on being the first in line.”
“That,” he says, “I do believe.”
