Chapter 249

• Varro
• The dark swirls around me like an oppressive, heavy cloak, and I stand motionless, aware of bodies close behind me as we wait in the unearthly still. The sound of labored breathing suppressed snarls and growls as my flank of wolves grows to stand in a uniformed mass of protection.
• “Lorey.” The familiar voice, followed by a swoop and gentle thud as my mate lands beside me in perfect poise. Appearing as if by magic. His hand skims the back of my hair with delicate precision and a show of affection, and he takes a second to focus everything on me with a pause as he checks me over. Appearing from beyond the veil of shadows and trees, I’m instantly calmer, relieved at his presence. Less afraid when he’s by my side.