Page 122 of Savage Mates

As my three mates surrounded me, still protecting me, I had a sense of peace for the first time in several years. This was my destiny and one I’d savor, never forgetting the beauty coming from all walks of life.

The lions sensed the approach of the plane before the humans, but it wasn’t long before the ground beneath us seemed to vibrate from their approach. I was eager, but also anxious, worried that the shifters wouldn’t be happy with the new life purposely carved out for them.

However, once they were safely secured in their new home, they’d create their own rules.

The new shifters were understandably wary, but the same alpha lion who’d given the command to leave us alone so they could be saved had convinced them staying on this island wasn’t in their best interest.

They remained a tight group, protecting their own, curious and finally beginning to ask questions, some of which I’d had no idea how to answer.

However, my mates had calmed them, giving them enough information to help their fears and concerns.

For now.

Time would tell how they’d adjust.

How the world would adjust.

Carrie flanked my side, looking more content since before we’d arrived. “You know what I was thinking?”

“Hmmm… Should I dare ask?” We both laughed.

“I was thinking I wouldn’t mind working and living in Africa. I mean if there might be a position open for a very hardworking research assistant and one day soon large animal veterinarian.”

“That wouldn’t have anything to do with one tall, rather good-looking yet brooding blond lion who just can’t keep his eyes off you.”

She shrugged and took a sip of whatever she was drinking. “I don’t know about that.”

Shaking my head, I squeezed her arm. “You have a position with me anytime. What about Peter?”

We both turned toward him. “According to him, if he never sees another lion again, that will be just fine by him. He also mentioned he’d be skipping horror movies from now on.”

A part of me couldn’t blame him. “Make sure you’re packed up. I’ll save a seat for you next to Alexander. Just don’t fight like cats and dogs. Okay?”

Carrie rolled her eyes. Still blushing when his name was mentioned. Budding true love.

I walked closer as the plane came into view, taking a deep breath as the pilot made the approach. The sun was bright and I shielded my eyes, trying to put everything into perspective. Mymind was still full of questions, but hopefully, the answers would come with time.

“Are you certain this is what you want?” Titus asked.

Tipping my head, I offered a smile. We’d scoured what was left of both the military compound and the burned-out buildings where the mercenaries had been living, finding enough clothing for everyone. However, he refused to wear a shirt. I had no doubt that was on purpose to keep me enticed.

“I’m very sure.” I’d already typed up my resignation, sending it via email. I’d also sent a personal note to Pamela, asking her to care for Simba, who I’d miss terribly. However, this was the right thing to do.

The cubs were healthy, with no sign of injury in the lioness. Who still needed a name. She’d suggested Lauren, but while we shared the same memories and life experiences, I wasn’t about to have a carbon copy of myself around. What if the lions liked her better?

I suppressed a laugh. She was always displaying differences, which was another reason to believe that while molecules could be altered, the various lifeforms had minds of their own.

And even in our little world where strangers were dependent on each other, love could bloom the weirdest places.

Titus wrapped his arm around my waist as the plane touched down, the warmth of his body providing the comfort I needed.

Moments later, my three mates walked with me toward the plane while the others remained behind. I sensed their emotions woven deeply with my own. My mother’s gift was alive and well and living inside. For that I would be forever grateful.

As soon as the ladder was dropped, a single man walked down the steps. A little older. Perhaps a little slower. But to me, he would always remain the most powerful man in the world.

My father.

Breaking free, I raced toward him, throwing my arms around his neck. “Daddy.”