VALERIAMy body was exhausted, not just physically but mentally as well.Ever since I was tricked into fighting Aldric on that cliff, up until the moment everything around me fell apart, I had been tense and stressed, overthinking my options, fearing the future, not knowing how to survive in the present.I don’t know where I am or what has happened.My confused mind reconnects with reality, but something immediately comes to mind—I’m pregnant.Scared, I shift my senses, checking my belly where my pup’s healthy life continues to grow and develop.I let out a sigh of relief. That was the most important thing, and then I focus on the person beside me.Someone is breathing behind me, a warm body, much larger than mine.I’m lying down, blinking as I try to focus on the strange furniture in the room.The hand around my waist tightens gently, possessively, pulling me closer to the broad chest, merging me with the powerful body.“Vale, are you awake?” The rough, familiar male voice pours into

ALDRIC"Quinn, I need you to return to the Realm as soon as you recover. I left everything in Beof’s hands," we moved a little away from the door to discuss our matters, standing by the window that overlooked the garden."We were ready to start the war. I told Beof to have the army prepared to attack the Dark Realm. Now it’s no longer necessary, but I fear he hasn’t received any news from me and might attack...""I can’t," he replied, looking me straight in the eyes. I could see the defiance in them. "You forget, King Lycan, that my sister and I committed treason. We deceived you, and I am no longer part of the Guardians' order.""Don’t give me that bullshit!" I growled angrily, but then glanced at the bedroom door and decided to calm down."If I haven’t held anything against you and I’m sending you to the Realm to take charge, why do you think that is? We’re not females, Quinn. We’re not going to hold hands and be best friends, but it’s obvious I have nothing to accuse you of.""You

GABRIELLEI woke up abruptly, tense. It wasn’t the healing sorceress—I knew exactly who it was.“Relax, don’t make any sudden movements. I’m just keeping your healthy skin clean, as the healer instructed,” his low, soft voice poured into my ears.I could picture him leaning over my body, his blond hair falling to his shoulders, his golden eyes focused.I had only seen him briefly when I expanded my senses upon rebirth. He’s beautiful and masculine, so sexy. He could easily find a mate within his own kind. I’m not the one for him—especially not now, not after what I’ve become.“You don’t have to do this. There are others who can—”“Of course, I have to do this. No one can take care of you better than I can,” he said. I remember his voice giving me strength amidst all the chaos and pain.“No,” I raised my hand, trying to grasp his wrist, frustration burning inside me from not being able to see anything—not even having the power to "see" my surroundings with my mind.I never thought I’d

GABRIELLEDamn it, it’s the white sorceress—but she’s not alone. The rich scent of apples seeps into my nose, impetuous and dominant.How the hell can I get rid of this relentless man?*****"Help me remove her bandages. The medicine I applied should have done its job by now...""Wait, sorceress!" I grab her hand almost by accident. "Can’t you do that alone? If not, wait for my daughter or another woman to help you…""Valeria is busy and pregnant. Do you really want to burden her even more? Or have her worry about seeing you injured?" His firm, masculine voice leaves me no room to refuse.I press my lips together, annoyed. I certainly don’t want to add more weight to my daughter’s shoulders, but why can’t this useless witch do it herself? It’s just removing a bandage!"I’m allowing him to stay because he’s your mate. I believe it’s best for him to know how to care for you," the sorceress explains with respect but firmness.They used to tremble in my presence, and now they even dare to

GABRIELLE"You're very handsome, from what I could see in the sanctuary. You seem trustworthy and understanding... sexy, very... masculine…" and you have such a sweet and delicious scent that makes me want to eat you up..."Ahem, anyway, you could easily find another mate, even someone younger…""I like older women, and I don't need anyone else. I've already found my mate..." He grabs my hair in a firm fist, tilting my head back and taking control of my movements.My breathing quickens at his words, and his tongue sensually licks the edge of my ear, his fingers trailing down my exposed neck."I have many more qualities, darling. You just need to try them, and I'm sure you'll like them..." he murmurs, sucking on my earlobe while his fingers lazily circle my collarbone."You're too cocky, Lycan...""I know I turn you on, Gabrielle. The scent your pussy is giving off is driving my wolf crazy. No matter how much your lying mouth tries to deny it, your desires betray you.""Mmmm," I moan a