Chapter 52

Draven’s POV

Maeve and I returned to the pack at first light. I guided her to her quarters, dreading the moment I’d have to leave her side. Duty, however, called: I had a council meeting at dawn, and afterward Dorian and I were to ride to the neighboring pack to settle outstanding matters.

I slipped my hands around her waist and drew her in for a lingering kiss. “Go on, Draven. I have to shower,” Maeve murmured, breaking away gently.

I grinned and took a step toward her bathroom door. “That sounds promising. Need any help?”

She laughed softly, shaking her head. “Oh, Goddess, you always know how to charm me. But really, Draven, go. I mean it.”

“Fine, I’m going,” I relented, pressing one more quick kiss to her lips. I left her there, stepped into my own chamber, peeled off my clothes, and let the hot water wash away the memory of the night. Clothed in fresh garments, I knelt to fasten my boots when the door creaked open and Thea slipped inside.