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“Baby,” he says, grabbing my hands. “It’s old blood. Look, it’s dry.”

“Do you need water? I’ll get you some food too.” I try to ease away, but he tightens his grip.

“Rylee, stop.” He pulls me closer. “I’m good,” he says softly, and I burst into tears.

Dropping my head, I press my face to his neck. “You’re good,” I cry.

“Hey,” he whispers, stroking my hair. “Don’t cry. I got you.” He rolls to his side, arranging my body beside him, circling my waist.

“Damn, I thought I was holding it together,” I sob.

“You did good, baby. It was a rough night.”

“You were the one hurt.” I press my lips against his skin.

“Yes, but so were you,” he hums.

“I didn’t like seeing you bleed,” I sniff.

“I wasn’t a fan either.” He grips my hair and tugs my head back. “Does this mean you like me?”

“Seriously,” I laugh, and he shrugs.

“I had to shoot my shot,” he smirks and glances over his shoulder. “I think Mom and Issy want to say hello.”

“I’ll let them in,” I offer.

“Alright, baby.” He kisses me softly. “I’m happy to see your face.”

“Me too.”

I suck back my tears and let his family in the room. Biting my lip, I exhale slowly, calming until Haven appears in front of me. She pulls me into the spare bedroom, seeing that I’m on the edge, and holds me close. I cry silently, giving my friend my pain. I let go of my worry and fear.

It’s time to take the life my mate is offering me.

Chapter Twenty-Two

Ezra

Pressing my palms on the shower wall, I bow my head and let the water glide down my back. I didn’t like the expression on my mate's face when she saw the dried blood. As soon as everyone left, I got in the shower. I explained what happened quickly. I love my family, but I want to be alone with Rylee. The sadness is still present in her eyes, and I didn’t like that she hid her emotions. I didn’t mention that I heard her with Haven inthe other room. If she needed the safety of her friend's arms, I wouldn’t deny her.

She is warming some food, intent on nursing me back to health. It’s a sacrifice, but I’m going to let her. The wound is almost completely healed. A bit of red remains, but it should disappear soon. I feel strong, but still tired. My fox took care of the healing. I will need more sleep than usual for the next few days. Nothing is going to stop me from completing the bond with Rylee. I can’t feel her emotions like she can mine. So, perhaps it’s all in my head, but I sense her love.

The night feels like a dream. I have no idea what time it is, but it’s dark outside. I don’t think I was with Bode long. Any amount of time away from my mate is too long.

I shut off the water and get out. Drying quickly, I slip on shorts and leave the room. I stop in the bedroom doorway and stare at Rylee. She changed while I was in the bathroom. I smile. My shirt floats around her thighs, and I’ve never seen something so beautiful.

“Come and eat,” she orders, and I meet her eyes. “I thought it would be more comfortable here.” She’s standing by the coffee table.

“Did you eat?” I ask as I walk toward her.

“Some.” She twists her hands in the hem of the fabric.

“Eat with me,” I say softly, placing my hand on her back. “We can share.”

“You need it more,” she says, sitting.

“There’s plenty.” I join her and look at the full plate. “Mom cooked.” There are three different casseroles. Mom was the queen of casseroles.