My reaction was visceral, fully instinctual, as every nerve in my body rejected that idea. “Absolutely not. Leo does not require the protection of some other Alpha. He will stay right here.”
Raven went rigid once more, and I immediately rejected my harsh tone. It was too late now though. What was done, was done. What was said, was said.
“Then I will continue to protect him as I have,” Raven said. “If I may be permitted to return to my duties now…?”
“Yes,” I said. “You may go.” I didn’t trust myself to say more while I felt this wretched.
As she left the room, I turned to my desk and tried to think of something on my own. If night was her concern, perhaps I could have more security patrols around the estate. Would that help put them at ease?
Deep in the night, I awoke from a dead slee
