Apphia

When I open my eyes hours later, my body feels completely sore, and my body temperature is cold, even with a fleece blanket around me. Nicholas is sitting at the edge of the bed, back turned to me. I reach to touch him, but he stiffens, and I retract my hand. 

Memories of what I'd done rush back to me—the wraiths. I'm hosting them. I can feel them within me. 

I attempt to sit up but wince at the headache I feel. My mate turns to me, alert. He is watching me intensely, deciphering who's in charge. 

"Hi," I croak.

A slight smile breaks on his face, and he...