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He had to smile.I love you too, mate.

Liam waved his hand toward the windshield. “So this here, this part of the trail, this belongs to Niall and Loyal. They’re the pack leaders of this territory.”

That sounded familiar. “Niall. That’s the name of the shaman?”

“Yes. I guess.” Dean shrugged. “I don’t really get out of the house much.”

“Luddite.” Liam rolled his eyes. “Yes, so. Niall is the shaman. He’s pretty new. Neat guy, really cool. So is Loyal. Actually, Loyal’s Keegan and Jameson’s brother. The pack wasn’t big enough for three alphas, so Loyal is up here, packing away. If you ever need anything though, you can stop here and they’ll know you’re pack. There’s lots of babies.”

“Oh, one day I’ll have to have Rory introduce me.” It was important to meet the pack shaman. Shamans could be difficult. Not in personality. Just—seeing what they saw meant it was hard to be part of the pack. They had to hold themselves apart.

“You want to meet them?” Liam asked. “I mean, you haven’t yet, right?”

“I haven’t. I am happy to if we have time, or I can have Rory introduce me.”

“Sure. Why not?” Liam swerved down the trail, revving his ATV engine a little. He had a feeling the conversation had made Liam wickedly uncomfortable.

He’s not good at emotional stuff, love.

Fen chuckled.Neither am I.

But he wants to do right by everyone. Let him take you to Niall’s. That way he can see if they need anything.

Fair enough, my love. Are you doing all right?

Sleepy.Rory’s mental voice was slowing. My stomach feels better. I love you.

I adore you. Rest. I’ll go meet this Niall and tell them about our good news.

Thank you, love. I will do that.He watched curiously as they went along the trail to Niall and Loyal’s…home? Outpost?

It was actually quite lovely. Rustic, yes, but well maintained and obviously a series of homes. The plants were dying back, but the houses were decorated with swags of dried herbs, flowers, and ribbons. It was breathtaking.

As soon as they pulled up, a couple of males came out, waving at them, their expressions welcoming and warm.

“That’s Loyal and Niall. Come on. I’ll introduce you.”

As soon as they stepped from the truck, shots rang out from the trees.

Chapter

Eleven

They’re shooting at us!

Rory sat straight up in bed, his heartbeat speeding so fast he could barely stand it.What? Who? Where? I’m coming.

He got a flash of Niall’s house, and then nothing, Fen snapping.You will not come here.

Watch me.He stood up and ran, his bare feet slamming through the fields. “Help! Help! I need help!”

The pack began to gather, Jameson finding him first. “What? What’s the matter?”

“Liam and Dean took Rory up the mountain. They got to Loyal’s. Someone’s shooting at all of them. We have to help!”

Jameson’s eyes flashed a gold fire. “I’ll run. Tell Keegan and he can come with reinforcements.” Jameson shifted and took off like streak of red and gold, his wolf massive.

We’re coming, mate! Jameson is on his way.