Nicolas POV

"I don't blame you for Beta John's death," she said warmly.

Her words startled me, and an audible gasp escaped my lips. There was no resentment in her voice. No anger. No pain.

Claire slowly pulled her warm hand back, leaving me feeling cold.

She looked at me with only love and acceptance. There were no traces of hatred in her eyes.

"My mate fulfilled his destiny and can now return to the Goddess's side," she went on explaining.

"What do you ...