Page 17 of Bonded Beyond Regret

Still, I was her mate. I should have balanced the scales more. But I didn’t. I was right here with her making my sister’s life hell. Because I wasn’t strong enough to fight Thomas’ command. Because I couldn’t find a way out.

That night when I killed Kathy, I wished for death. The only mercy I was hoping for was that it would be swift.

Instead, I was given the Alpha title and a pack that was divided, and untrusting. There were far too many members who stood by and did nothing or actively abused a child. Nothing about the situation was easy.

When I walk onto the training grounds, finally, while struggling to shake off my past, I realize I’m not alone. I almost bark out a laugh because it looks like the female I’ve been trying to avoid found me, even if it was inadvertent.

Nyx isn’t alone either. She’s here with Aisley; both of whom are wearing matching workout sets which is adorable as hell.

My wolf peeks out of my eyes as we watch Nyx go over a few things with Aisley, including how to get out of a few holds. I almost jump out of my skin when they start to spar.

“Aisley,” I try not to put too much of a command in my voice because I don’t want to startle her, “protect your left side. You telegraph your hits. Don’t think about it and just let your body do what is instinctual.”

Aisley doesn’t look at me, not wanting to get distracted from her opponent, but she does give a small side of acknowledgement. Nyx doesn’t react to me initially, but I do notice when goosebumps cover her arms.

When I step closer to them, I expect Nyx to make an excuse and to leave, but she doesn’t. She holds her ground with her chin raised. Something eased inside of me being close to her again.

I might have been the one to walk away the last time we talked, but I’ve missed her.

I turn my attention toward Aisley, “You want me to give you some tips so you can beat your mom’s butt?”

She squeals and starts to jump up and down as she claps. “Yes, please, Samuel. She always beats me, but I know I can take her down.”

“You can try,” Nyx taunts her daughter with a big smile on her face.

Fuck. She’s beautiful.

“Yes,”my wolf growls in agreement.

The next thing I know, hours have passed. I don’t think time has ever passed as quickly as it has when I’m around Nyx and Aisley. It feels good and right.

Suddenly, that doesn’t scare me as much as it did.

Maybe talking about Kathy with her was exactly what I needed. It has allowed me some clarity.

I want this woman. I want her more than I’ve ever wanted a woman.

Not only that, but I want Aisley to smile at me like I matter to her. I want to be there for her as she grows up. I want her to know she can rely on me.

I want these female’s love.

“Finally,”my wolf howls,“you’ve figured out what I’ve known for a while.”

The three of us are breathing heavily while wearing broad smiles. Before I can stop myself, I blurt out, “Can I take you ladies out to dinner?”

“Yes,” Aisley answers before her mom can even consider my offer. She turns toward Nyx and hands out the biggest puppy dog eyes I’ve ever seen.

I can see the moment Nyx caves, and my smile gets so big that my cheeks start to hurt.

There’s no question that I don’t deserve this woman, but there’s something here between us. If I were to let that go and not explore it, my gut is telling me that I would miss out on something that will change my life.

It’s necessary, for both of us, to find out where this goes and what it means.

CHAPTER 8

NYX

Aisley gives me a soft smile as I tuck her into bed. Her voice is soft, and I hate the little bit of hesitancy in her tone, “Samuel is really nice, Mommy.”

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