Page 19 of Siren in the Rain

Coin: All signs point to ‘yes.’

Griff: Dude, so you’re totally like a Magic 8-Ball, but in the form of a coin!

Coin: Better not tell you now.

Griff: Aw, nuts.

—Private conversation between Griffin and his coin

Griffin

Something enormous and monumental, unlike anything I’ve ever known, wells up within me. I can’t even begin to describe it—it’s like a never-ending explosion of confetti feelings inside my chest!

They make me want to cry and jump for joy at the same time.

My mate.

I’ve found my fated mate.

And he’s so beautiful and brave.

But he’s been hurt badly for so long that he’s giving off heavy “leave me the fuck alone” vibes. Earning his love and trust won’t be easy.

My old pack used to mock me because I’m not exactly the smartest guy, but one thing I do have in spades is an unshakable level of devotion when it comes to those I care about.

I won’t give up on Shae. I’ll stay by his side no matter what—even if he won’t accept our mate bond.

Just being near him and being able to use my SCSS to help him is enough.

He doesn’t realize it, but he’s given me a newfound purpose in this life—keeping him safe and helping him find the happiness he deserves. And I intend to see it through to the end.

I’m so relieved Cal was able to get that horrible collar off his neck. My heart aches to know how much he’s suffered from that device alone.

Even with Ruby’s healing skills, the scars of my mate’s torment are carved into his skin. I don’t know how he managed to endure seven years of wearing it. No doubt he had to be in constant pain from the iron.

Someone chose that material deliberately. Someday, I want to learn the whole story of what happened to him, but for now, Shae needs time and space to heal from the inside out.

My mate is so strong. I can’t even begin to know all that he’s endured, but he survived, and I can tell that whoever enslaved him didn’t manage to break his spirit.

I can sense confusion and exhaustion radiating from him now as I continue to nuzzle his hands. He may not be reciprocating my affection, but he’s not actively pushing me away either. He’s even relaxed his body, so I savor the pleasure of touching him while I can. I pour every ounce of positive and soothing energy into the vibes I send his way as I bathe him in my scent.

I dream of the day I can snuggle him to my heart’s content.

I may not be very good at most things, but I’m a champion snuggler.

Dallas clears his throat. “I know you’ve been through a lot and this all probably seems very overwhelming at the moment, but MEOW Squad has been called in to escort you to a safe location. We’ve been warned that there might be people looking for you, and this shelter isn’t equipped to provide the protection you may need. Will you come with us?”

“We have an awesome fortified compound in Malibu that has a top-notch magical security system. You’ll be safe with us, Shae.” I lean my head on the side of the bed as I gaze up at him, relieved to sense his anxiety diminishing.

“They’re telling the truth,” Mara says. “My shelter has worked with Dallas and his team many times. They’ve helped quite a few Otherkind individuals in need. If anyone can keep you safe, they can.”

Shae seems to consider this and then turns to his friend. “What do you think, Em? I’m not loving the idea of leaving you behind while I stay with strangers.”

Ruby picks up on his concern and wraps an arm around a blushing Emma. “This is perfect! You can both come with us. Emma’s going to work with us, and Shae will have his friend nearby for comfort as he gets settled in.”

Emma has a dazed look on her face, but she can’t keep her eyes off of Ruby. I grin.

“Whoa! Hold up. I haven’t agreed to anything yet,” Emma says warily.

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