My mate blinked and was surprised at this.

But he shook his head. “I’m sorry for doubting you and Vance. I was stressed with the prisoners in the dungeon, not to mention the Blackwind Pack’s violent mess—”

“Hush,” I lifted a finger on his lips. “You don’t need to apologize for being tired. I understand, Your Majesty.”

And we hugged for around five minutes, I think. When we released each other from our embrace, his lips curled. “You’re my lamb,” his breath was hot against my ear as he whispered, “and I am both your shepherd who tends to you and the wolf who’s meant to devour you.” His lips...