Page 93 of Rejection and Redeemed

“We can all make sure he does. We can also make sure he shifts everyday, for fifteen minutes, that will help build his stamina up,” Berni added. “I also don’t want Jacob shifting alone, though, just in case he gets into difficulties.”

“That’s no problem,” Joe replied. “We can make sure someone is always with him.”

They felt a shimmer in the air and turned to look at Jacob, who had shifted back into his human form.

Fran picked the sheet up and covered him.

A moment later they heard Jacob sigh and open his eyes.

“Hey babe,” Fran said, bending down and touching Jacob’s cheek with his fingers. “How do you feel?”

Jacob grabbed his hand and kissed his fingers before answering. “Exhausted and my chest feels tight. I think I pushed myself too hard.”

“You did,” Berni said, looking at him in concern.

While Jacob moved to sit up Joe put pillows behind his back.

“Sorry,” Jacob said, looking at everyone and smiling his thanks to Joe.

“There’s nothing to apologise for. You needed to know what you can do and your limitations. For the moment I’m restricting you to just fifteen minutes a day shift and you’re only to staywithin the drive around the castle. I also don’t want you shifting alone,” Berni cautioned.

Jacob nodded. “That makes sense. My wolf told me shifting each day would help, but that I’d have to pace myself when running and I’ll never be able to run like I used to as my lungs are damaged.”

“I’ll run some breathing tests on you later,” Robbie told him.

“If it’s only my lungs that were damaged and my fur being silver, I can live with that.”

“Iron Man really is out of the question now, but you can still become a vet,” Fran said, grinning at him.

“You wanted to be Iron Man?” Finn asked with a laugh.

Jacob nodded. “It was a toss-up between the two.”

“Excellent. I’ll make sure I have yours, Joe’s, and Finn’s educational records sent through, the three of you can go to our college. They’ll help you with the rest of your studies,” Berni said.

“Thanks, Berni,” Jacob answered.

“Yes, thanks. My parents made me promise that I would finish my education when I left. They would also like to come for a visit and meet my Frank,” Joe said, beaming at his mate.

“They will be most welcome. They can stay in the castle for the length of their visit.”

“Are you sure, Berni? I know they wouldn’t mind staying in a hotel.”

“Nonsense, they’ll stay here,” Berni said decisively.

“Thanks,” Joe replied, leaning into Frank.

“Do I have to stay in this hospital room, or can I move into Fran’s room?” Jacob asked hopefully.

“I’d rather you stayed in here tonight, but all being well, you can move out tomorrow—on the understanding that you take it easy, especially when shifting,” Robbie told him.

“I can live with that,” Jacob replied on a yawn.

“We’ll leave you to rest for now. I’ll have Clairmont bring dinner up for you later and I’ll contact the pack shaman and enquire about your silver fur.”

“Thanks, Alpha,” Jacob said, sleepily.

Fran got Jacob settled and sat next to him on the bed.