Page 59 of Surrendered to Mate

As we grab seats, a group of older vrakken approach us. I tense slightly, but Evelyn squeezes my hand reassuringly.

"Ladies," one of them, a tall male with striking silver hair, addresses us. "We were hoping you might join us for some combat training later. Your... unique perspectives could be valuable."

I exchange a glance with Evelyn, seeing my own surprise mirrored in her eyes. "We'd be honored," I reply, trying to keep the shock out of my voice.

As the group moves away, Evelyn leans in close. "See? We're making progress already."

I nod, feeling a surge of gratitude for her friendship. In this strange new world, it's comforting to have someone who understands exactly what I'm going through.

"So," I say, changing the subject. "Want to go terrorize some dae in the forest later?"

Evelyn's answering grin is all the response I need.

As Evelyn and I chat, the atmosphere in the room suddenly shifts. I feel a familiar tingle down my spine, and I turn to see Cassius and Soren entering. My heart skips a beat at the sight of Cassius, his tall frame commanding attention as always.

"Pretty boy," I call out, unable to keep the smile from my face.

Cassius's dark eyes lock onto mine, a smirk playing at his lips. "Sweetheart," he responds, his deep voice sending a shiver through me.

The two men make their way over to us. Cassius slides into the seat next to me, his arm draping casually around my shoulders. Soren takes his place beside Evelyn, giving her a quick peck on the cheek.

"How was training?" I ask, leaning into Cassius's embrace.

He chuckles, the sound rumbling through his chest. "Soren's a tough taskmaster. I think he enjoys watching me suffer."

Soren snorts, his usual scowl softening slightly. "Someone's got to whip you back into shape, old man."

"Old man?" Cassius raises an eyebrow. "I could still take you down with one hand tied behind my back."

The banter continues, and I can't help but marvel at how far we've all come. Cassius and Soren, once wary of each other, now work together seamlessly. And here we are, two former humans and two ancient vrakken, laughing and joking like old friends.

Evelyn catches my eye, a knowing grin on her face. She understands the wonder I'm feeling. We've both found a place we belong, against all odds.

As the conversation flows, I feel Cassius's lips brush against my temple. "How are you doing, sweetheart?" he murmurs, his voice low enough for only me to hear.

I turn to face him, drinking in his features. "Better now that you're here," I reply honestly.

His eyes soften, and he leans in for a proper kiss. It's brief but filled with promise, making my toes curl.

When we break apart, I notice Evelyn and Soren sharing a similar moment. It's strange to think that not too long ago, we were all strangers, each fighting our own battles. Now, we're a team, a family of sorts.

The conversation picks up again, ranging from base operations to hunting strategies. I listen, occasionally chiming in, but mostly I'm content to bask in the warmth of Cassius's presence and the easy camaraderie of our little group.

I lean back in my seat, Cassius's arm a comforting weight around my shoulders. As the conversation flows around me, I can't help but marvel at how much my life has changed in such a short time.

Just months ago, I was alone in the forest, surviving day by day, haunted by my past and afraid of my future. Now, I'm surrounded by friends, about to be mated to an incredible man, and part of something bigger than myself.

"Hey, Faye," Evelyn's voice breaks through my reverie. "You still with us, wild child?"

I blink, focusing on her grinning face. "Sorry, just got lost in thought for a moment."

"Careful," Soren quips, his usual scowl softened by a hint of amusement. "Thinking too hard might strain something."

I roll my eyes at him. "Says the man who looks like he's perpetually solving complex equations."

Cassius chuckles beside me, the sound vibrating through his chest. "She's got you there, my friend."

Soren's scowl deepens, but there's no real heat behind it. "At least I don't look like I'm constantly surprised by my own existence."

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