Page 49 of Lord of the Lone Wolf
“I don’t know. He’s been through so much trauma. The last thing he needs is pressure from us about something he might not even want.”
Kizoshi nodded. “Your consideration for his autonomy speaks well of you. But do not assume his past pain has closed his heart.”
“He deserves better than what life has given him,” Auslin said, steering the conversation back to safer ground.
“Remember, love is not a finite resource, Auslin. It grows to fill the spaces we allow it. What you feel for Maseo does not diminish what you share with my brother. If anything, it proves the strength of your heart.”
Understanding dawned in his eyes, followed by denial. “You think I have feelings for Maseo?”
“I think there is a reason you have such vehement reactions to the half-wolf shifter.”
Auslin shook his head. “That’s—I don’t—” He took a deep breath. “Even if that were true, it wouldn’t matter. Kitsuki is my mate.”
“And he has been showing quite an interest in Maseo himself, has he not?”
He studied her, trying to decipher her hidden meaning. “What makes you say that?”
“My brother’s dragon is not as subtle as he believes.” She tapped her finger where Maseo wore the ring Kitsuki had created to protect him from afar. “Neither are you, for that matter.”
Auslin’s expression grew troubled. “But why? I don’t understand.”
She reached out to touch his arm. “There is nothing wrong with what you feel, Auslin. Nothing at all. Your heart recognizes what was always meant to be.”
He didn’t seem reassured. “I don’t know what I’m feeling. That’s the problem.”
Kizoshi squeezed his arm before letting go. “Everything will unfold as it must. Clarity approaches with each heartbeat.”
Auslin sighed. “I should be used to your cryptic reassurances by now.”
“Have I ever misled you?”
“No,” he conceded. “But speaking of the war, I need to be there when they face Nasume.”
Her expression softened. “Auslin?—”
“Please hear me out. My healing powers could save countless lives on the battlefield. I could make a difference.”
“You will,” she assured him, “but not in the manner you envision.”
Frustration flashed across his expression. “By staying behind? How does that help anyone?”
“It is paramount that you remain at the castle,” Kizoshi said, her voice firm yet gentle. “You are Kitsuki and Maseo’s reason for returning.”
Auslin blinked. “And Maseo’s?”
“Yes.”
He scowled. “That doesn’t make sense.”
“By remaining here, you give them something to fight for. You will do more good than if you were on the front lines with them.”
Auslin looked down at his hands. “I hate feeling useless.”
“You are many things, Auslin. Useless has never been one of them.” She reached across to lift his chin, making him meet her eyes. “Trust me in this. Your place is here.”
The fight seemed to drain out of him. “I do trust you. But I wish I could do more. Sitting here, waiting for them to come home, doesn’t seem like enough when they’re risking their lives to end Nasume’s tyranny.”
“I know.” Her smile was sympathetic. “Watching those we love walk into danger requires a different kind of courage. Sometimes, the bravest act is to wait.”
