Page 328 of Claimed By the Rival Alpha
I leaned down and kissed him deeply. His hand slipped down my back, sending goosebumps in its wake. I pulled away, and my voice was shaky as I murmured, “Let’s get going before we get too distracted.”
Oh, but his answering chuckle was so charming, so tantalizing. It took an unbelievable level of will to not let his sexiness drag me back into that haze of ecstasy…
I gasped and sprang up. “I started making porridge!” I rushed to the door. “I hope I didn’t burn it!”
Night’s laugh followed me out the door, leaving me warm and content. I had my mate back.
Fortunately, the porridge hadn’t burned at all. The rice had dissolved more than I liked, but it was tasty, filling, andcomforting. Eating it with the pickled vegetables added some wonderful acidity.
The weather was starting to clear when we made it to Kings territory. Dom, Tavi, and Samara were waiting for us.
“Bryn, it’s been so boring here without you,” Tavi said, hugging me.
I laughed and hugged her back tightly. I remembered the days when she wasn’t as eager to show this physical affection to anyone, male or female. Now she was almost as quick with her hugs as when we first met. I was happy that she was healing so well.
“I’m glad you’re feeling better, Bryn,” Dom said as I wrapped my arms around his neck. His hugs were always warm and comforting.
“It’s good to see that you’re settling in, Samara,” Night said. “I hope you’re comfortable.”
“I am.” Her eyes lit up as she smiled. Samara no longer wore the linen dress that hid her body. Instead, she was dressed in jeans and a black hoodie. I recognized the brand logo on the sleeve—the hoodie was one of Tavi’s. Tavi had left most of her baggier clothes behind in favor of long sleeves and leggings, but the clothing was perfect for Samara’s taller form.
“How are you liking things?” I asked as Dom released me.
“It’s taken some time to get used to the freedom women have here,” she replied. “But I am getting used to it. I must admit, I find your people strange compared to the values my father holdsdear.” There was an emphasis on the way she said “father,” a weight in the word that bore resentment. “But your people are also very kind,” she finished. “I really appreciate your having me.”
I touched Samara’s arm lightly. “Stay as long as you like. We’re glad you’re having a good time.”
Still a bit stiff and more polite than was necessary, she inclined her head in thanks. I liked her. Knowing what I knew about her life on Camas territory, I couldn’t help but relate to her. My childhood had been difficult, and even though it wasn’t as hard as what she and the other women of her pack endured, I knew what it was like to not have a voice. I hoped Samara would find her voice here.
“You and I should talk more, Samara,” I said, “but later. Right now, we’re on a mission.”
Dom raised a brow. “Did you two make some headway on the Troy situation?”
“Not really,” Night replied. “But we’re hoping to.”
I turned to Tavi. “We’re going to speak to Samuel again, and we need you with us, Tavi.”
Surprise flitted over her face, but a second later, she nodded. “I’m here for whatever you need from me.”
“Great.” I smiled. “Come on, I’ll explain on the way.”
We left the three and headed to the Granbys’ cabin. The sun was high above us by the time we reached the door that was painted to look like the sky. Samuel had added more detail since we’d last been here: a couple more clouds and a flock of flying birds.The additions made it look even better, lending a dreaminess to the peaceful scene.
“You sure you’re up for this, Tav?” Night asked.
“Yes.” She answered a little too quickly. When she noticed the concern on Night’s face and mine, she amended her answer. “I mean, I am a little nervous, but I want to help as much as I can. And before you ask again, yes, I’m sure I want to do this.”
He smiled and patted her shoulder. “I understand. Let’s do this, then.” He turned from her and knocked on the door. We stood waiting, and a few seconds later, the door opened.
“Oh!” Cathy said. “What a surprise. If I’d known the alpha and the den mother were coming, I’d have made something tasty.” She spotted Tavi standing slightly behind Night. “And Octavia’s here, too? Well, now I feel unprepared.”
I shook my head and smiled. “Don’t worry, Cathy, we don’t expect anything like that. Do you mind if we come in?”
“Not at all. Come in, come in.” She stepped aside for us to enter her living room, shutting the door behind us. “Adam, we have guests! You three take the couch, Adam and I will stand.”
I shot a subtle look at Night and raised my eyebrows as Tavi and I sat down. He gave a brief nod back and leaned against the wall beside me. So, we’d both noticed it: Cathy was more open to this impromptu visit than she’d been the first time. What had put her in such a good mood? Not that I was complaining about such a warm reception.
“Who made this?” Tavi asked as she patted the white-and-gray knitted blanket draped across the back of the couch.
