Vorlyk took the gnarled hand into his and pulled Madayah onto his lap. He kissed the mutilated side of her face and ran his hand over the smooth side. His entire body relaxed when she leaned in and kissed him.

Nicolas felt their love deep in his gut. He cared about Franklin, loved him for the wonderful person he was but could never give the vampire what he wanted. Nicolas hoped to someday find a she-wolf mate to share his life, and Franklin, his best friend, understood that. ...