At Reed Manor, Nightcrawler Pack

After a quiet lunch with Abner, his wife, and Althea, the Alpha King set his cup down and spoke in a measured voice. “I must ride out to inspect the borders. I will be gone for some time. While I am away, Althea will remain here.”

The words lit Althea’s face. Before she could think, she sprang forward and pressed a quick, impulsive kiss to his lips. Gavriel stiffened; Althea’s eyes widened as if she had been burned.

She stumbled back, cheeks flushing. ...