Page 36 of Smoke and Moon

She didn’t even flinch at the sound of Aodh casting a flame into the rushing water.

Soon, he lowered them into the steaming bath.Not until then did Aodh shift her body off his firm length, then settle her between his legs.

Kai sighed and snuggled into his big, warm chest as a yawn overtook her.She struggled to keep her eyes open.“I need to check on my sister.”

He held her tighter as he caressed along the side of her face, brushing back her wild curls.“In the morning, mate.Now rest.”

Mine.

She couldn’t help but smile at the sound of Aodh’s claim on her as she drifted off to sleep in the comfort of her mate’s strength surrounding her.His declaration filled her with joy and peace as if he’d said those three words her heart longed to hear.

Chapter Six

“What happened yesterday, Aodh?”

Aodh gave her a cocky look from where he stood by the closet, fastening his pants.

Heat flooded her cheeks as she shook her head.She sat in the single-room chair and finished lacing up her boots.“Not that.With Morlie.How worried do I need to be for my sister?”

Aodh grabbed one of his vests out of the closet and put it on before he stepped before her.

Staying seated, Kai waited.

“Morlie is protected here, Kai.No one would dare enter my territory.”

She tilted her head and stared at him.“That’s not true.That big, gruff shifter marched in and grabbed her.”

“That’s different.Dov and Turi, like the other Alphas and their seconds on the council, have a right to cross territories without additional permission to travel to the council meetings.”

Kai nodded.“Well, what is there for me to worry about with Morlie?”She rose and set her hands on her hips.“Don’t say ‘nothing,’ Aodh, because I saw Liekki stationed outside her door.So, you must think there is a threat.”

Aodh shoved a hand through his short, dark hair.His markings were blank, showing nothing of what was happening with his emotions.In some ways, Kai loved and hated that the Drahks’ emotions were clear on their proverbial sleeve...their whole body.It was easy for her to read or interpret what they were feeling behind their words.However, most were highly skilled at masking some of their reactions, like Aodh.Like now.

If he let them show, would his markings be tangerine or crimson?Agitation or anger?

“Kai.All of this is complicated.Multi-leveled and takes time to explain.”

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