Page 60 of Wolf Touched

I laid my head on Raffe’s arm, feeling sluggish, and my wolf calmed, settling inside my chest like she was as tired as my human part. “But like Raffe said, I’ve been immune to their magic since we completed the bond.”

“They were probably working with several high-ranking priests and priestesses, based on the strength of that spell. There had to be at least five covens backing her magic to make sure their collective magic was stronger than your power.” Priestess Caroline smirked. “And they failed. That’s why their magic doesn’t work on you—yours is that much stronger, and it’s arcane-born. You embody theoriginal power ours was derived from. Yours work similarly, but not even a coven member can truly understand the strength of what surges through you.”

I hadn’t thought of it that way. “But they fought me hard.”

“Yes, but I could feel your power fighting back, and it was miraculous.” She rubbed her hands together. “They won’t try that again. For as much pain as you were in, their pain was tenfold. That’s why their magic disappeared the way it did—you pushed them out of here.”

Fane rocked back on his heels. “Does that mean they located her?”

“No, they couldn’t. Her magic repelled them.” Priestess Caroline stood taller. “Normally, when a location spell is performed, the other person isn’t aware that it’s happening. This had some gusto, which meant they probably tried and failed before.”

Even though we were still safe, that didn’t make me feel better. “If they have that many covens behind them, what does that say about the Veiled Circle? Could it be growing or already huge and we didn’t know?”

“She could’ve gotten their aid by telling them you’re under threat from Raffe or a danger to yourself.” Priestess Caroline stopped in her tracks. “Or they could be part of that society. We can’t really know.”

Once again, we had no definitive answers.

“With Olwyn, always assume the worst.” Avalon wrinkled her nose. “Her family has been a menace since the beginning. They’re the reason we hid from other covens.”

I yawned, unable to hide it.

“She needs a nap.” Raffe sighed. “Especially if they try something like that again.”

“I don’t think they will, but I can’t be certain.” PriestessCaroline scowled. “One thing is sure, afterthat—they’ll be more desperate to find her. The threat isn’t gone—if anything, it’s increased, which means we need to prepare.” Her gaze landed on me. “We need to train you to get you into the best shape possible.” She pointed to the house. “Go, take a nap, and after lunch, head down the road to the next house. Come ready to work.”

“We should wait until tomorrow.” Raffe lifted his chin. “She’ll be exhausted.”

“Exhausted is good. That means her power won’t be as volatile and will be easier to learn to control. In a way, Olwyn helped us.”

Raffe’s blood warmed. “I won’t risk her life. She won’t become another Foster.”

“She won’t. You completed the fated-mate bond. If she struggles, we won’t push her past a healthy level.”

The two of them glared at each other, determined to have their way.

“Raffe, you can come with me, and we can try. You’ll know if I’m tired, and if I get to the dangerous point, we’ll go.” I needed to find a compromise so both felt like they were in control.

“Fine.” Raffe glanced at me, his face softening. “As long as you promise to stop if it becomes too much.”

I nodded. “Promise.”

“Let’s get some rest.” Raffe took my hand and led me back to the house.

We went to our bedroom, and Raffe shut the door behind us. I ran a hand along the dark wooden dresser across from the bed. The wood felt cool under my fingertips.

I lay on the hunter-green comforter, and as soon asRaffe wrapped his arms around me, I felt safe and drifted off to sleep.

I wasn’t sure how long I’d slept, but I woke to the sound of Raffe snoring in my ear. I smiled and turned to face him, his face so serene. Most of the time, when we were awake, we were dealing with threats, and it was rare to see him completely unguarded.

“Take a picture. It’ll last longer,” he murmured, his eyes opening to slits.

“If I’m taking a picture, I’ll need you to remove some clothes.” I winked, heat spreading through my body.

My tiredness melted away at the thought of Raffe naked in front of me.

He smirked. “You’re supposed to be resting, not trying to seduce me.”

I shrugged, trailing a finger along his cheek. The buzz grew stronger, and after this morning and yesterday, I had to connect with him.I need you,I linked, still expecting him to say no.

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