Page 49 of The Monster's Mate

“I fucking hate portals,” Bane grumbles.

Eldritch growls, wrapping his arm around Charity. “It appears it’s time for a family reunion.”

Chapter Nineteen

Charity

There are no words to describe how frustrated I am with Meena. She understands what it means to be a mother. Twice now, she’s stood by, knowing my child would be taken, and said nothing. The day with Ember in the park and again this morning. It feels a little like the top of my head could pop off.

At the same time, she’s responsible for Eldritch being in human form. At the very least, she knew it was coming and ensured Ember came with her that morning so that we could follow this timeline.

Bane, Eldritch, and Silence groan and complain as we land in…

My head twists around, catching sight of the wooden decor.

“How did we end up in Eldritch’s cabin?” I ask no one in particular.

“We need a safe place to congregate while they do some reconnaissance.” Aline rubs at the side of her breast. “I’m on a timer of about three hours before these things start to riot. Breastfeeding multiples is an adventure. I suggest we solve this situation quickly, otherwise I’ll leak everywhere, similar to a dairy cow.”

Malice chuckles darkly. “I’ll be happy to help you with that, kitten.”

Wraith frowns, and his head tilts like he’s thinking something through. “I was unaware that was an option, but I’m not appalled by the idea.”

“I know you were trying.” Knight slaps his clustermate on the back. “But you made it weird.”

“I meant with Nadia,” Wraith says, like he’s still confused where that comment went wrong.

“We’re wasting time,” Bane growls.

Silence clears his throat, rolling his shoulders back. “We need a plan. How about I go with Malice, Bane and Athos stick together, and Wraith and Knight team up?”

“What about me?” Eldritch asks.

“You’re the most likely to be recognized,” Silence says. “Also, we need someone to stay with Aline and Charity.” He bows his head. “You will have my deepest appreciation if you stay back to protect our mates.”

Oh yeah, Silence would have made a good king. He’s studious and slightly manipulative, but I imagine anyone in politics would need to be.

I also agree it would be dangerous to send Eldritch with them when we still have no idea how his beast will react once he shifts for the first time.

Eldritch gives a clipped nod, and I finally feel like I can breathe.

“You know I’d give anything to be able to override the limits on my magic.” Athos grabs my hand. “Right?”

I bite my lip and nod.

I really do believe that he would fix this if he could. I’m also not sure I trust myself enough to speak. Wishing is so freaking tempting, but I believe him. We could end up with an even worse outcome than where we are now.

The only thing keeping me together is knowing Cyril intends to claim Veryn as his heir. He won’t hurt him, because he needs our son to claim his inheritance.

“Darling,” Athos says with a pleading look that makes my stomach roll uncomfortably.

“I don’t blame you, Athos.” I swallow thickly. “It would be like blaming Bane for not being able to shift into a unicorn. I know there are limits to your magic.”

“I love you,” my djinn whispers, pulling me into his chest. “I have since the first time you scoffed at me being your mate. Do you remember? You told me you were taking Veryn and the wyvern and leaving town.”

I snort and give him a hug. “Just bring him back, okay?”

“They’re not ready for the level of hell I’m about to rain down on them,” Bane growls, pacing the floor.

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