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“Ridge, that’s a heavy burden to carry alone. You’re not to blame for the decisions your ancestors made,” Jaxon said. “You don’t have to bear it alone. Let us help you.”
I clenched my jaw. Tori was still vulnerable without my protection. The idea of relying on others—even fellow alphas—made me uneasy.
“I appreciate the offer, Jaxon.” I forced a smile. “I’ll definitely think about it. For now, I need to stay focused on keeping Tori and the rest of our community safe.”
“Of course,” Jaxon said, sensing my unease. “But just remember, the world doesn’t have to rest solely on your shoulders.”
“Thanks.” I appreciated his empathy, but I couldn’t shake off the sense of responsibility that had settled deep within me. As much as Jaxon’s words made sense, it was difficult to let go of the notion that I had to make everything right on my own. My ancestors had caused harm to so many shifter packs, including their own, by selling others off like cattle to the hunters for money and their own safety.
It had taken so long for me to gain trust from any of the surviving packs. They’d finally shown faith in my vision of a place where we could be safe from the threat of the hunters. I wouldn’t let any of them down now, particularly when it came to Tori’s safety.
“Anyway,” Jaxon said, eager to lighten the mood, “I should get back to the Montana Pack. If you ever need anything—advice, support, whatever—don’t hesitate to reach out.”
“Will do,” I said, clasping his shoulder in a show of camaraderie. Jaxon’s presence in Blackwood Creek might have been unexpected, but he could be an invaluable ally in our fight against the hunters.
As he walked away, I stood for a moment, inhaling the crisp fall air. My commitment to protecting those around me hadn’t wavered, but perhaps Jaxon’s suggestion wasn’t entirely off-base. Involving more members of our community in its defense might not only strengthen our position but, like the run Margo was organizing, create a stronger bond among us all.
I’d give it some more thought. For now, though, I would continue to prioritize Tori’s well-being and the safety of our packs.
Chapter 31
Tori
The bell above the door chimed softly, announcing Ridge’s entrance. Before the door had the chance to touch the frame, he had closed the distance between us and swept me up in his strong arms, pressing his lips against mine in a kiss that left me breathless. I tangled my fingers in his hair, pulling him closer, craving the warmth and comfort only he could provide.
“Ridge,” I said as he pulled away, the heat of desire creeping into my cheeks. We’d only been separated for a few hours, yet it felt as though an entire day had passed. Sometimes when we were together, I occasionally questioned my foolishness for being so utterly captivated with him. But in the moments of separation, my longing for him intensified like an insatiable craving. The absence of his presence left a void that could only be filled by his comforting touch, his alluring scent, and the emotions that surged through me when he was with me.
“I saw you through the window, and I just couldn’t resist.” He grinned, his eyes dancing. “I missed you.”
“Missed you, too,” I said with genuine affection. “You always seem to know when I need one of your surprise visits.”
“Call it intuition.” He winked at me before turning his attention to the designs for the tattoo studio scattered acrossmy work table. I’d started sketching out an idea for a mural of a forest illuminated by the soft glow of the moon, with a pack of majestic wolves swiftly darting through the trees, their figures not defined by solid lines but composed of a unique combination of the shadows and moonlight. I’d already decided that I wouldn’t use it for the tattoo studio because it didn’t match the image I had in my head. However, I was unable to resist sketching it, and found I had no choice but to keep my pencil moving until it was finished.
As I watched Ridge evaluating it, the thought crossed my mind to turn it into a canvas and gift it to him for his office, perhaps as a wedding present. His fingers traced the intricate lines of a wolf’s snout, genuine awe in his eyes. “Your work never ceases to amaze me, Tori. You’re incredibly talented.”
“Thanks, Ridge. That means a lot, coming from you,” I said with a shy smile, gently tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. His praise warmed me from within. He always had a way of lifting me up.
He took the time to examine each design carefully, asking questions as if he was really interested. It was one of the many things I loved about him. Ridge always showed an interest in my life and passions, and I was grateful that he took the time to truly see me and my art.
“You can look at the rest later,” I said. My stomach growled loudly, threatening to drown out my words. “Right now, I’m starving.”
“Let’s go to the Moonlight Café,” Ridge suggested.
I agreed enthusiastically, hunger gnawing at my insides. As I locked the doors to my studio, the ring on my left hand caught the light, and I was reminded once again that the man standing beside me was truly my fiancé. My mate.
I looked up at him, and my heart swelled. I wasn’t sure I’d ever find the words to express my gratitude for everything he’ddone for me. It wasn’t the shop or the ring. He’d given me so much more. Stability. Acceptance. Love. Acting on impulse, I stepped into his arms and drew him in for a passionate kiss. The world seemed to fade away as I poured my feelings into the kiss.
When we finally parted, he studied me intently. “What was that for?”
“I wanted to show you my appreciation for being such a wonderful man.” I grinned at him.
He leaned down and whispered in my ear, the words radiating warmth and sending exhilarating shivers down my spine. The electrifying sensation had my nipples hardening in an instant. “I’ll let you show me your appreciation later when we’re home alone and don’t have an audience.”
I glanced over his shoulder. The number of people bustling between the stores had increased by a lot since I’d first arrived at the shop. It seemed my kiss had caught the attention of a few curious onlookers. I suddenly felt self-conscious.
“Come on, you mentioned lunch.” I grabbed Ridge’s hand and we walked to the Moonlight Café. I stole a glance at him. He didn’t seem embarrassed by the public display of affection. If anything, he looked pleased.
It wasn’t a long walk to the café, but the serenity I’d enjoyed this morning on my way to the studio had given way to the hustle and bustle of the town center. Through the window of The Bridal Suite, my eyes landed on a woman I didn’t recognize. Probably Tracey, the woman Fiona had filled in for this morning.
