Page 48 of Breathe Again

“It’s just Stockholm syndrome. He was nice to you when they held you captive, so you feel obligated to help him,” Thomas tried to reason.

“I was never held captive,” she reminded them. “I stumbled across them, they freaked out and gave chase. Luke told me to run, so I ran. Yes, the other two were assholes, you can keep them and do as you see fit, but not Luke. Look, I’ve never been one of his biggest fans, but we grew up together, and he’s not like the others. Arrogant, cocky, sure, but he’s not vindictive and he’s always stood up for injustice, not contributed to it. Would you just trust me and release my client already?”

Thomas looked my way and I shrugged. “If she’s this adamant that he’s innocent, then I think you need to listen and do as she asks.”

“You’re serious?” Thomas asked.

I looked at my mate and felt hope surge through her. I could tell she was nervous and this was a profound moment for us. I nodded. “Yes. I think you should listen to your sister. She was the only one there and she seems to know this guy. I trust her and her opinion of him.”

Love and gratitude flooded our bond, overwhelming me. I gave her a half smile and it felt like my wolf was wagging his tail happily when she beamed back at me.

Elizabeth

Chapter 20

I could feel frustration rolling off of Cole from just discussing Luke, but he had supported me without question. I couldn’t put into words how much I appreciated it. I didn’t realize I needed that from him, but the relief it gave me was tangible.

Thank you,I told him through our bond.

He grinned and winked at me.

“You’re certain about this, Lizzy?” Ruby asked, sounding a little hesitant. I knew just how much she hated the Larkens. Since she spent more time than the rest of us out on the range and monitoring our borders, these sorts of skirmishes with Larken wolves were normal for her and frankly, they just pissed my sister off. I couldn’t fault her that, but Luke had never been like the others in his Pack.

“I’m sure. He doesn’t deserve this,” I insisted.

“Fine,” Thomas said. “James, release Luke Larken, but the other two stay.”

“Thank you,” I said, kissing my brother’s cheek.

“Bout time you showed up,” Luke said with a wide grin. “I’d hug you, but I’ve already felt the wrath of your mate.” He emphasized the wordmateand shot me a questioning look.

I rolled my eyes, knowing everyone thought I’d be an old spinster and never settle down. “Luke, this is Cole Anderson. Mymate,” I added, copying the tone he’d used. “Cole, this is my friend, Luke Larken.”

“We’re friends now?” he asked, raising an eyebrow my way.

“Trust me when I say that’s the only reason you’re getting your freedom back,” Thomas informed him.

“This is my brother, Thomas. That’s James, and these are my sisters,” I finished introductions.

“The new Alpha,” Luke said. “I would like nothing more than to see Jedidiah step down as gracefully as your father has. Perhaps then our Packs could begin to heal.” There was no malice in his words and it threw Thomas for a loop.

“I suppose that depends on your next Alpha,” he said, sounding skeptical but not entirely dismissing the idea.

“So what happens now?” Luke asked.

“You’re free to go, but Elizabeth and I will see you to the border.” Cole added in as James hid a smile, but Thomas didn’t argue with him, only nodded in agreement.

I saw Luke check out each of my sisters as we turned and headed for the door. The sooner I could get him out of Collier territory, the safer he’d be. I didn’t harbor any ill feelings towards Luke, I just didn’t want to see him hurt because of me. I truly believed he had been trying to help me.

“Don’t even think about it,” I told him when we were outside and out of earshot of the girls.

“What?” he asked innocently.

“My sisters are off-limits to you and any other Larken.”

“Damn right about that,” Cole added.

“You’re not a Collier,” Luke said matter-of-factly. “What do you care? You don’t even know the situation.”

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