Chapter 40. Beautiful Memories

Darcie looked at the group in contemplation and murmured, "While we wait for Langdon's friends to arrive, I'd like to speak with Coal alone. Langdon, could you take Brinley to the north gardens? The fresh layer of snow has made the view quite beautiful."

Oh, hell no, that wasn't happening. I bristled at the idea of Brinley being anywhere alone with Langdon. My spine straightened. A low rumble released from my chest, and I tightened my hold on her hand.

In her usual intuitive fashion, Darcie eyed me and asked, "Coal, do you trust your mate?"

I froze. The bluntness of her question washed over me, forcing me to consider my words before I answered. Did I trust Brinley?

The mate attraction was hard to describe, but I could almost feel her heartbeat next to mine in my chest. She had given me no reason for mistrust. I answered carefully, "Yes...it is Langdon I'm not sure of."

Langdon smirked. Darcie didn't appear to be the least bit offended at