AllFreeNovel
Share Us
I thrust my hands through my hair, trying to restrain myself. It’s not their fault, after all – this situation is unprecedented. “At least tell me what’s going on with her. Is she…okay?”
Casey unfolds her arms, softening slightly. “She’s…not doing so great.”
My heart plummets. “What do you mean?”
Edirn meets my gaze gravely. “She’s shifted again. Into her wolf.”
Oh, God…not again.
The thought of my beautiful mate trapped in that cage, a wild beast instead of the woman I love…
I squeeze my eyes shut against the pain in my chest.
“Her mind is in turmoil,” Edirn says quietly. “The trauma, the stress of being accused…it’s tearing her apart inside.”
I lean back against the wall, feeling like all the strength has drained from my body. My mate, my strong, brave Cedara, suffering like this because of a horrible mistake…
Edirn’s voice cuts through my despair. “Barrett. I know you’re hurting, but you need to hear this.”
I open my eyes, focusing on him with effort.
“I’m certain Cedara hasn’t killed anyone since coming here,” he says firmly. “Her thoughts, her mind…there’s no hint of violence or malice.”
A spark of hope flares in me. I don’t need to ask him how he knows this; Casey already explained his abilities, and as implausible as it seemed at first, it works for me now. “You’re sure? What about when she’s shifted?”
He shakes his head. “Even then, her core personality remains intact. She’s still the same Cedara you know.”
Relief floods me, leaving me lightheaded.
She’s still in there, still fighting…
My fists clench at my sides as a fresh wave of protectiveness surges through me. She’s battling demons I can’t even imagine, all alone in that cell.
She’s not alone. I’m here.
I straighten, resolve hardening. “I’m going to fix this.” If Jagger won’t let me in, I’ll find another way.
Casey looks sympathetic. “If it were up to me…”
Edirn is eyeing me strangely, though. “You’ve found something.”
“Yes.” I dip my head. “When we woke up this morning, there was blood on the sheets. The others thought it belonged to the victim. But they’re wrong. It’s not human.”
“It’s not?” Casey’s eyes widen. “Then what?”
“Wolf. I’m sure of it.” I have the fabric bunched in my fist. The pair exchange glances, nostrils flaring as they take in the scent. “If Jagger would only speak to me, I’d be able to prove it to him.”
“It’s hard to say for certain what it is.” Casey doesn’t look convinced. Edirn is frowning, his eyes narrowed in thought. “Which means that Jagger won’t believe you. He’s convinced you’ve lost your mind over this woman.”
“Maybe he’s right. Doesn’t mean she’s guilty, though,” I retort.
“Why don’t you get the doc to confirm it?” Edirn asks. “She’ll be objective.”
I stare at him. “That’s a good idea.” I turn to leave, mulling this over.
“Barrett,” Edirn calls after me. “I know what it might look like, but I’ve got your back on this. I don’t think she could do it.”
I stride away with purpose. No more headlong rush this time. I need to keep my wits about me.
