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“Thank you,” Rapunzel says. “That’s very kind.”

“Not at all,” he replies. “You’ll be treated like a queen.”

I narrow my eyes at him, and he smirks, clearly enjoying getting a rise out of me.

When we reach Aelric's rather large and unfortunately, impressive house, he lowers himself to allow her to easily slide off his back. As soon as she’s on her feet, he leans in close, and whispers in my ear. “If you're open to sharing a mate, Fox, we’d gladly accept you into our family Clan.”

A possessive growl escapes me. “Foxes do not share.”

Aelric darts a glance at Rapunzel. “Ah, but it’s not your decision, now, is it?” I bristle as he chuckles lightly, steppingback with raised hands, his eyes full of mischief. “Just an offer, my friend. If you change your mind, let me know.”

Looping my arm around Rapunzel’s waist, I tug her to my side, pleased when she practically melts against me.

“Foxes.” Aelric sighs and rolls his eyes. “So possessive.”

Aelric’s house is nothing short of grand. A large wooden structure with tall ceilings and beautiful carvings throughout. A servant leads us up the stairs to the second floor. It overlooks the main entry and a large open dining area with several long tables and a massive hearth on the far wall with a roaring fire.

The servant gestures at two doors, side by side. “Your rooms,” she says. “If you need anything, let me know.”

Rooms?It’s on the tip of my tongue to demand that we stay together, but I hesitate, waiting to see how Rapunzel reacts. I know she trusts me, but I’m not sure how she feels about me as a potential mate.

My fox is already as set upon her as I am. But that means nothing. Aelric’s right: The choice is hers.

Absently, I reach up and trace the long silver scar along the right side of my face. I still don’t even know how she feels about this. I’m not sure how humans regard such things. For all I know, she may find me just as undesirable as the female Foxes do back home.

Rapunzel glances at me as she moves to the door on the right. “Finik and I are going to get settled.”

She’s made her decision. We’ll be sleeping in separate chambers.

“I’ll be right here if you need me.” I gesture to the room on the left.

I’d much prefer to share a bedroom, especially among so many Stag shifters posturing, trying to snag her attention, but I will not press the issue.

After a quick bath, I collapse back on the bed, staring up at the wooden ceiling overhead. My ears perk as I listen for any sounds of Rapunzel next door. My claws extend as I think of Aelric and his companions. If any of them try to tempt her away from me while were here, I’ll claw out their eyes.

A soft knock at my door startles me and I bolt upright. “Come in.”

I’m surprised when Rapunzel enters.

“Rapunzel?” Instantly, I rush to her side. “Are you all right?”

“I'm fine.” A lovely blush stains her cheeks. “I just… missed your company.”

She missed me.My chest warms, my earlier panic forgotten.

“It felt strange being alone in that room. Aside from Finik,” she adds.

Speaking of Finik… “Where is he?”

“He’s already asleep in the bed.”

I note that she’s wearing a new dress. The cream-colored silk shimmers in the candlelight. It clings to her like a second skin, accentuating the luscious curves of her body. Desire floods my veins. “You look beautiful.”

She glances down, shyly smoothing the fabric. “Aelric gave it to me as a gift.” Nervously, she tucks a stray tendril of hair behind her ear. “I think they were serious about treating me like a queen. They drew me a bath and offered to give me a massage afterward, but I declined.”

Jealousy flares bright in my chest, my claws extending.They’re all going to die today.

“I remembered something,” she says, pulling me back from my dark thoughts.