When dawn broke, Xandar ran with Lucianne’s wolf back to the clearing behind the hotel before returning home to shower and change for breakfast. After getting ready, he sped to the dining hall and instantly spotted his mate’s small back as soon as he entered. It was the first time she was standing so close to the entrance that he might be able to surprise her before everyone bowed to give away his presence.

He took quick but quiet steps towards her, taking advantage of the fact that his mate was concentrating on what seemed to be a very serious conversation with the alliance members. When he stood close enough,...