Page 107 of Those That Are Lost

I turn, so my back is fully to Adicious, as I mouth, “Go find Atlas.”

Antares tries to reach for me but I step back and wave him off. I feel his eyes watch me until I round the corner.

I follow Adicious into his office, leaving Antares firing daggers. I hope he obeys my request. Adicious’s threat plays on my mind. He could be separating us to take out Antares for all I know. I think he’ll be safe with Atlas.

“I hope the pack is treating you well.” Adicious motions for me to come in and take a seat before closing the door behind me. The snick of the latch triggers my heart rate to increase. He doesn’t lock it but it's the first time I’ve been alone with him. I have to fight the flashes of images flooding my mind from our last close encounter.

You’re stronger now. More informed and more skilled.

I take a seat on a new looking leather chair and cross my legs at the ankle.

“Everyone’s been welcoming tome.” I emphasise the distinction.

“Yes, well. Your companion was… unexpected.” Adicious walks across the space. Instead of taking the chair behind his desk, he pulls the other one next to me around and sits facing me. There’s not half a foot of space between our knees.

“He’ll be a good asset to the pack,” I say, mentally adding ‘he already is.’

“That remains to be seen. Once you have the protection of the others, you might find him surplus.”

I swallow the growl and change the subject. I refuse to talk about this. “What did you want to see me about?”

“To the point. I was rather enjoying chatting.” Adicious crosses his ankle over his knee and steeples his fingers under his chin. “Very well, I wanted you to know that I’m planning a ceremony for our mating.”

“A what?” My eyebrows shoot upwards.

“For the day after tomorrow.”

“Since when did I agree to that timeline, or a ceremony?” I sit up straighter, a little panic setting in. If I can’t negotiate this, our time here will be shorter than planned.

“What’s the issue? You returned to become part of this pack, to join me in leading the pack, didn’t you?”

“Yes, but not so soon. I thought we’d take our time.”

“I’m afraid we don’t have that luxury.”

“Why?”

“With you galivanting all over the continent, who knows how many males know about you. They could be travelling here right now. I won’t risk the pack being attacked over you.”

“I was careful. No one knows.”

“Really? Cause you showing up here with a male in tow suggests otherwise.”

“He’s the only one.” I’m floundering.

“This isn’t up for discussion.”

“It is, and I’m not ready. I know what a mate bond entails, and I don’t want that yet.”

“I’m sure you can perform for your duty.”

I want to gag.I’m lost for words and don’t know how to respond to that other than shaking my head a little. I see the anger rising in Adicious at my refusal.

“I’m being lenient here Aurora. I do regret whathappened last time, and I’ve been patient until now. Letting you settle in and get acquainted. I’ve given you enough time.”

I go to stand, but Adicious is quicker. His hands land firmly on my thighs, keeping me seated. I look directly at him and school my features to show mere annoyance rather than the pure hatred burning in my veins.

This prick thinks he’s doing me a favour. I can’t wait to end him for all that he’s done.