Epilogue
Andrew
"I think I found someone to help you with your abilities," I say to Libra. "His name is Prescott. He's supposed to be some kind of ghost hunter, spirit expert… I don't know what you call them."
She contemplates the information quietly where she's resting against a pile of fluffy pillows on a sofa in the library. The bruises are fading, lacerations healing, but I imagine the mental and emotional wounds will take years to scab over, if they ever do.
"You know, I spent years hating my abilities.
My family tried starving me, beating me.
When they finally realized they couldn't rid me of them, they sold me off to Cyril, even knowing what kind of monster he was.
I've lost so much time to this idea of brokenness.
It's time to embrace what I can do. Learn to love myself. "
"Personally, I think what you've been gifted with is fascinating. I'm sorry for what you've been through. No one should have to experience those things, especially at the hands of their blood family. You aren't broken, or deviant. You are exactly who Fate intended you to be."
"Thank you for caring enough to find me."
"I hope you choose to stay for a while and let us get to know you better."
Leaving Libby with Prescott's contact info, I kiss her forehead and head out to meet Wyatt for an evening hunt, only to be waylaid by Jagger on my way out the door.
"What memories did you see when you fed from me?" he asks.
"Probably what you expect I did."
He nods. "It was a risk."
"I won't say anything, Jag. It's not my place."
"Thank you," he says, patting me on the shoulder as he turns to go. "You're good for Wyatt, and a welcome addition to the family."
"Jag, don't let your demons keep you from connecting with Richard. If you let him, he'll love you. No matter what."
There's no response as he walks away. I've done what I can do. It's time to find my mate!
The forest is alive with nocturnal happenings, but my focus is listening for my mate's heartbeat. It's the one advantage I have over him. My heart no longer gives me away to beings with heightened senses.
An owl hoots. Something rustles the underbrush.
I remain still. Scenting. Listening.
There he is.
On silent feet, I maneuver quickly through the trees.
As I draw closer, the breeze shifts, and I alter my path. This time, I am determined to catch Wyatt. I can't let a shift in the wind give me away.
Slowing, I prowl the tree line, eyes searching for human or wolf.
My mate stands in his human form, looking out into the darkness, watching for me. Waiting.
Silently, I approach his broad back. If I had a beating heart, it would be pounding in anticipation.
My claws extend as I reach up and grab him by the throat.
"Found you, baby," I whisper, taking in his warmth. "Ready to suffer for me?"
A shudder racks his body as a growl vibrates the skin beneath my hand.
"Always, Andrew. Make me bleed."