Page 69 of Understanding Fate

It also was the scariest moment I’ve had since I thought she’d taken a bullet on that field.

When I thought I’d lost her forever.

In the few minutes since watching her initial struggle to shift, that fear has only intensified.

Had I done something wrong?

Not given her enough?

The mind-link after helped ease some of my worry but didn’t completely remove it.

It wasn’t until her eyes flashed copper that I could finally relax. Once the command takes hold, she shifts seamlessly, and her wolf is beautiful.

With fur that’s chocolate brown and freckled patches of black, she stands taller than most female wolves.

You’re stunning.

I send in a mind-link to her when the glow of her eyes finally meets mine.

Bri: Mate.

She responds, and I know her wolf is pushing her out. She will learn to remain aware once she’s done this more, but I would bet she won’t remember any of her time shifted today.

My wolf pushes for control, and I allow him to speak to her.

Mate.

Very original, buddy.

His growl has me throwing my hands up in surrender as I pull off my shirt, wanting to run with her.

Before I shift, I open the cabin door, letting her out into the sunshine. Her movements are tentative as if she’s testing her ability. Her coat shines in the sun, and my heart soars as I watch her scent the area.

The cold hits my skin, and I close the door behind me before allowing him to take over.

Once I’m shifted, I reach out, tugging on our bond and feeling her excitement.

Cain: Come on, Mate. Let’s see how fast you are.

I send before taking off at a jog, hoping she will chase me.

The sound of her paws breaking the icy snow behind me tells me she does. Staying mainly on the path, I try to keep the route simple and steady, not pushing the pace to see how she does.

She falls into my rhythm, matching me stride for stride before overtaking me just a few minutes in and pushing the pace. Before she can get around me, I nip at her flank playfully and then allow her to lead.

She’s fast.

Agile, graceful, and surefooted, but damn if I’m not struggling to keep up.

Bri: Should I slow down for you? You’re breathing a little heavy there, big guy.

Cain: I’m fine

I respond, not liking how difficult maintaining her pace has become.

Bri: Of course, you are.

Her mind-link comes through just as she darts off the path and disappears.

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