Emily's fear had grown deeper with each passing day, a fear that her true mate, her love, might die.

As she moved, her thoughts drifted back to the day that they had first met. She remembered the way that he had swept her off her feet, the way that he had protected her and loved her without reservation.

But now… now she felt alone and adrift, as if all the color had drained from the world. She was terrified of what the future might hold, terrified of the idea of living without him.

Suddenly, there was a loud knock at the door, interrupting her thoughts. Emily took a deep breath,...