Page 73

“I lied.”

My alpha snarls hungrily at the invitation. Kingston and Voss step forward immediately, eyes blazing with promised violence. Romano slips a possessive arm around Fallon’s waist, pulling her protectively to him, murmuring something that makes her grin wickedly. “Don’t forget her heart is mine.”

I crack my knuckles slowly, feeling the brutal anticipation hum through my veins. It’s time this bitch pays.

Voss

May 20th

12:23 A.M

Moonlight spills softly through the sheer curtains, painting Fallon’s creamy skin with silver shadows that ripple gently as she breathes. Her long, dark blue hair gleams in the dim light, tangled around her shoulders like silk. For the first time in my life, the dark shadows that linger inside me feel subdued, almost content. I run my fingertips slowly along her spine, savoring the softness of her bare skin and the way her body relaxes further into mine with every touch.

“We still need to figure out how to shut down those auctions,” she whispers quietly, her voice barely audible. She shifts gently, careful not to wake the others, who are all tangled peacefully around us, deep asleep in the warmth of our nest.

My chest tightens, the familiar fury simmering beneath my skin. But tonight, with Fallon’s small frame wrapped protectively in my arms, it’s easier to keep that rage at bay. Pressing my lips gently to her shoulder, I whisper against her skin, “We will, Princess. How could we possibly fail with you by our side?”

She sighs softly, worry lining her pretty face even in the dim moonlight. I brush my knuckles along her cheek, feeling the tension there. Her eyes were normally bright and fearless, and she clouded slightly.

“I’m worried about Odette,” she admits, voice hushed. “Every time I call, she’s short with me. Always busy. It’s like she’s pulling away, and it scares me, V.” Her voice cracks just slightly. “I know Violet’s doing okay, but even she seems distracted lately. With the auctions still happening…” Her voice trails off, heavy with anxiety.

I draw her closer, my large hand stroking gently down her back, soothing her fears as best I can. “Hey, don’t worry, Princess,” I murmur quietly, lips brushing her temple. “You said Odette still has Henry, right? And that man would rip apart anyone who tried to hurt her.”

She nods slowly, a small smile finally curving her lips. “Yeah. Henry’s her permanent bodyguard now, especially since I have all four of you.”

I chuckle softly, my chest vibrating gently against her. “Exactly. And besides, Fallon, you’re our fierce little badass. Or should I officially upgrade you to Queen?”

She giggles softly, the sound delicate and sweet as I nuzzle her neck, my beard tickling her tender skin until she squirms. She slaps playfully at my chest before settling comfortably against me again. I hesitate briefly before deciding to share my suspicions.

“You know, Princess, I think I know what’s going on with Violet.”

She tilts her chin up instantly, her blue eyes brightening, hopeful, and curious even in the dark. “Really? What?”

I brush her hair gently behind her ear, trailing soft kisses along her jawline. “Remember the commandos who helped us rescue you? Jex, Dare, and Fox?”

She shivers slightly at my kisses, her breath catching. “Yes, of course. They were really nice—and, admittedly, a little terrifying.”

I growl playfully, pulling her tighter against my chest. She laughs again, a musical sound that fills my chest with warmth. “Well, I was completely focused on you when we burst into that room,” I confess quietly, “but I didn’t miss the looks of absolute shock and recognition on their faces when they saw Violet. Especially Jex—he couldn’t take his eyes off her. He hovered around her the entire time, protective in a way I’ve only seen scent-matched Alphas behave.”

Fallon’s eyes widen with excitement, sparkling in the moonlight. “Oh my god! You really think they’re Violet’s scent matches?”

“Almost positive,” I murmur softly. “And gods help them—they’re gonna have their hands full. I’m pretty sure Violet’s filter is permanently set to sarcastic and violent.”

She bursts into another quiet giggle, eyes dancing with joy at the thought. It makes my heart squeeze painfully with how much I adore this woman. I pull her even closer, burying my face against her hair, breathing deeply of her honeyed peach scent.

“I love you, Fallon,” I whisper fiercely, possessively. “My Queen. Forever and always yours.”

She smiles warmly, cupping my jaw tenderly, her gaze softening with absolute trust. “I love you too, Voss. Forever and always yours.”

Wrapped securely around each other, we finally let the quiet darkness carry us to sleep, our hearts beating in perfect sync.