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Ashwood shifted rather easily and began dressing in a rush, whereas it took Bellamy a bit of time to will his body to conform to his wishes. Perhaps because they weren’t his wishes at all. Only his mate’s. Bellamy wanted to stay in the forest for longer.
But he also knew that Ashwood sensed danger, and he needed to comply.
Shifting back to human form was painful to all his senses, the world rushing back in a crass, unforgiving way. His limbs felt awkward, too small for his skin and somehow brittle as if they might break from the transformation. He dressed silently, then followed Ashwood out of the forest, attempting to adjust to his human joints and gait.
They didn’t speak until they got back to Ashwood’s rooms.
“Let us clean up, fix something to eat, and then we can talk.”
So that was what they did. They disrobed, and using a fresh ewer of water they poured into a large basin, cleaned their bodies with no shyness between them, not after what they’d shared in the woods. Though the pull toward Ashwood was strong, to be near him and touch him, Bellamy restrained himself, knowing it was perhaps only the kinship between them.
Properly dressed again, he followed Ashwood into the kitchen, feeling out of sorts, but famished too as he watched him set bread, cheese, and smoked meats on the table before them. He’d expended a lot of energy in the forest, and he wanted to do it all over again if he could. It didn’t make any sense. He’d been terrified of wolves, and now he wanted to run with them? And yet, that was exactly what he’d done.
“That was…incredible,” he said, digging into a hunk of bread. “Thank you.”
Ashwood looked him over. “It might’ve been too much for you after being so ill. You’ll need to rest again.”
“Perhaps.” He nearly rolled his eyes, but also knew that Ashwood was only concerned for his well-being. “Who was the wolf?”
“I’m not certain, but it’s the reason I don’t stay around here. Just in case…” He sobered. “I don’t know if seeking out Kipling is such a good idea.”
“Oh, I see.” He swallowed hastily. “You merely appeased me so I’d agree to getting well?”
“No, I understand your need to inquire about your mother.” His gaze swung to the window. He was no doubt thinking about the howl they’d heard in the forest. “But I’m afraid he might hurt you.”
Bellamy shivered. He would’ve been ill-prepared as a new wolf had they crossed paths. “Perhaps you’re right. I just…need time.”
Ashwood nodded. “Would you like to return to Moon Flower and discuss it with the madam?”
The idea disappointed him, especially after what he’d just experienced.
Would it be the worst thing to listen to his body, to his instincts?
“Oh, I know that look,” Ashwood said in a chastising tone that bordered on amusement. “It will be best to inquire first, would it not? About the suppressant?”
“Enchantment is closer. Perhaps we need to call upon Madam Fairborn.”
Chapter 15
“Are my eyes deceiving me?” Madam Fairborn exclaimed as they walked through the doors of Enchantment. “You’ve made it through the worst of the sickness?”
“I most definitely have.” Bellamy smiled, warmth spreading through him as she pulled him into a tight hug. “Thanks to Ashwood.”
She looked over at Ashwood. “Thank you for curing him.”
“No thanks needed. He’s my mate. I would’ve done it without question.”
“Is that right?” she asked Bellamy in an amused tone, eyebrow raised. She knew of their history, but Ashwood speaking of it so blatantly made heat rise to Bellamy’s cheeks.
“I spoke out of turn,” Ashwood said, noting the uncomfortable silence on Bellamy’s end. “That doesn’t mean we are destined to be together. On the contrary, I have much to make up for.”
“So I’ve heard.” She tsked, but it was less potent than Madam Langley’s disapproval would’ve been. It was one of the reasons Bellamy had decided to seek her out first. She softened Madam Langley’s rougher, sterner edges.
“Does she know yet?” she asked, speaking of her beloved fondly.
Bellamy shook his head. “I will return to Moon Flower soon. There are some things I needed to take care of first.”
“She will be thrilled—and relieved. Especially because of the Dragon’s Blood.” She frowned. “Had we realized—”
“It’s all right. I don’t hold any ill will.” He squeezed her hand. “I could never, not after everything you’ve done.”
She cupped his jaw affectionately, then looked him over as if to ascertain for herself that he was indeed feeling better. “Is it all right if I send word to Moon Flower?”
“I was hoping you would,” Bellamy replied. He didn’t want Madam Langley to worry any longer than necessary, nor the others, wondering what had become of him. “I came here first, hoping you could help.”
“What sort of help are you seeking?” she asked warily.
He took a deep breath. “The suppressant I’ve been taking…it’s now been weeks since the last dose, and I…well…”
