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I fight down a snort because it couldn’t be further from the truth.
“I don’t see why that should make a difference, Jagger.” Sierra is frowning.
“Because if Cedara were to shift while he’s on the premises…” He shakes his head. “It would blow our cover in an instant. We can’t risk it.”
“She’s not going to change. She’ll be able to control it, I’m sure of it. After the doctor gave her another dose of the antidote, she shifted almost immediately. I think it must be working,” I interrupt.
“That’s good news.” Jagger looks sincere. “But can you guarantee it?”
“I… Well…” My heart sinks, but I know he’s right. I can’t. As much as it pains me, Cedara will have to remain locked up for now. At least until the commissioner leaves.
“It shouldn’t be more than an hour or two,” Jagger continues. “Raura knows how to spin a story. Once the commissioner is gone, Cedara can be released safely.”
It’s not ideal, but it’s the best I can hope for right now. I nod reluctantly.
“Why is the police commissioner even here?” I can’t help but ask. “What’s his interest in all this?”
Jagger sighs again, sinking back into his chair. “Early this morning, the local police showed up, asking questions about the attacks. Nosy bastards. Not long after, the commissioner arrived – apparently, he’s taking a personal interest.”
He shakes his head in disgust. “I had to go into the full song and dance. Spent over an hour laying it on thick for that smug prick.”
My jaw tightens at the thought of having to hide our true nature, to grovel and deceive. But I know the risks of exposure, especially now, while there’s a wolf hunt in progress.
“Raura’s good at that sort of thing,” Jagger continues. “She’s been giving him the grand tour, really selling it. As long as the commissioner buys our little act and leaves satisfied, we’ll be in the clear.”
He hits me with a stare. “Which is why Cedara can’t be released until he’s gone. I won’t risk jeopardizing the entire pack over one wolf, mate or no mate.”
The words sting, but I know there’s truth in them. As much as it kills me, I’ll have to be patient…to trust that Jagger will keep his word once the threat has passed.
For Cedara’s sake…for all of our sake, we’ll have to hold on a little while longer.
Chapter 27
Cedara
I sit in the small cell, my legs crossed as I try to find a comfortable position on the hard floor. My heart is calmer now, the frantic pounding from earlier having eased. Barrett’s words echo in my mind – he won’t give up on me. I believe him. A small smile tugs at my lips as I think of the determined set of his jaw when he promised to clear my name. He’s out there fighting for me right now.
My mate.
I love how that feels.
The sound of approaching footsteps makes me look up. My breath catches in my throat as my mother appears, her familiar face alight with relief and joy.
“Cedara!” She rushes forward, pressing her hands against the bars.
I scramble to my feet and move closer, drinking in the sight of her. “Mom!” My voice is thick with emotion as I reach out to grasp her hands through the metal grate separating us.
“Oh, baby.” Her eyes shine with unshed tears. “Barrett did it. He managed to convince that stubborn Alpha Jagger of your innocence.” A watery smile breaks across her face as she clutches my hands through the bars. “He’s been fighting for you, just like he promised. Your mate never gave up on clearing your name.”
I feel a swell of gratitude and love for Barrett. My strong, steadfast mate who refused to believe the lies about me. Even though I’d been so sure he would doubt me after everything pointed that way, he never believed any of it. Even when I had doubts myself.
He stood by me when it would have been easier to turn away. Warmth blooms in me at the thought of him arguing my case.
What did I do to deserve him?
A weight lifts off my shoulders. “I knew he would.” I give her hands a gentle squeeze. “Barrett is…like that. A fighter.”
My mother nods, a soft smile curving her lips. “And he fought hard for you, love. But Jagger needs a bit more time to make arrangements before releasing you.” Her expression turns apologetic. “I’m sorry, but you have to stay in here a while longer.”
