Page 58 of Surrendered to Mate

Faye laughs, a sound that sends warmth spreading through my chest. "Oh really?" she teases, her eyes sparkling with mischief. "And what if I had said no, pretty boy?"

I growl playfully, nipping at her lower lip. "Then I would've had to convince you. And trust me, I can be very persuasive."

She shivers in my arms, and I can smell her arousal. It takes every ounce of self-control not to take her right here, in this magical clearing.

Instead, I release her, stepping back. "Run," I whisper, my eyes locked on hers.

Faye's breath catches, understanding dawning in her gaze. She hesitates for just a moment before turning and darting into the forest.

I count to ten, giving her a head start, my body already thrumming with anticipation of the chase. Then, with a predatory grin, I take off after her.

I can't wait to make good on my promise again.

28

FAYE

Istretch languidly, relishing the feeling of my enhanced muscles as I wake. Even after a month, I'm still not used to the heightened sensations of my vrakken body. The sheets whisper against my skin as I roll out of bed, Cassius already gone.

My daily routine begins with a quick shower, the water cascading over my newly sensitive skin. I dress in the tight, dark clothing favored by the vrakken, marveling at how it seems to mold to my body.

Stepping out of our quarters, I make my way to the training grounds. The base is already buzzing with activity, other vrakken nodding in acknowledgment as I pass. I'm still getting used to the respect they show me as Cassius's mate.

At the training grounds, I meet with a group of newly Made vrakken. Their eyes are wide with a mix of fear and excitement as I demonstrate how to control their enhanced strength and speed. I can't help but feel a twinge of sympathy for them, remembering my own disorientation when I first woke up as a vrakken.

"Remember," I say, my voice carrying easily across the field, "your instincts are your greatest asset. Trust them." I pause,watching as they absorb my words. "But also remember to temper those instincts with control. You're stronger now, faster. You need to learn your new limits."

I guide them through a series of exercises, correcting stances and offering encouragement. My hands move deftly, adjusting an elbow here, a foot placement there.

It's strange to think that just a month ago, I was in their shoes, fumbling through these same movements. Now, they come to me as naturally as breathing.

As I watch the newly Made struggle and improve, I can't help but marvel at how quickly things can change. From human to vrakken, from student to teacher, all in the blink of an eye.

After training, I head to the human settlement area. It's my job to help the newcomers adjust to life under vrakken protection. As I approach, I see a group of wide-eyed humans huddled together, their fear palpable.

"Welcome," I greet them, keeping my voice soft and non-threatening. "I know this is all very new and scary, but I promise you're safe here."

I spend the next few hours answering questions, arranging accommodations, and generally trying to put the humans at ease. It's a delicate balance, being both protector and potential predator.

As I finish up with the humans, I spot a familiar face across the courtyard. Evelyn waves enthusiastically. I can't help but smile as I make my way over to her.

"Hey there, wild child," Evelyn greets me with a grin. "How're the newbies settling in?"

I roll my eyes at the nickname. "They're scared, but they'll adjust. How was the hunt this morning? I'd heard there's a pack of likar moving through."

Evelyn's eyes light up. "Oh man, Faye, I saw some! And hunting them…it was so fun!"

We start walking together, our steps in sync. It's easy to fall into conversation with Evelyn. Despite our different backgrounds - she was a farm slave, I was a forest recluse - we've bonded over our shared experience of being newly Made.

"So, spill," Evelyn nudges me playfully. "Your mating ceremony is coming up. Are you excited?"

I feel a warmth spread through me at the mention of Cassius. Evelyn is already mated so I know she's been in my shoes before. "It's... intense. Good intense. But not what I expected, especially since Cassius is demanding everything be done right."

"I'll bet," Evelyn wiggles her eyebrows suggestively, making me laugh.

We reach the communal area where other vrakken are gathered. I notice a few giving us curious looks. There are still some people who don't like the newly Made vrakken, let alone two mated to powerful warriors.

"Ignore them," Evelyn mutters, sensing my discomfort. "They'll get used to us eventually."

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