Kaiden’s Point Of View
The words echoed through my mind long after Slade’s voice faded into the silence.
The curse. The darkness.
It would come. But so would I. I stared down at the girl sleeping against my chest… my mate, my heart, my reason for breathing, and a fierce, almost primal need to protect her surged through me.
No matter what happens, I swore silently. No matter what it takes... I will protect you, Avery. Even if it costs me everything. Even if it costs me myself.
Slowly, I shifted, careful not to wake her. I cupped her face, feeling the delicate warmth of her skin under my palm. Her lashes fluttered slightly in her sleep, and she made a small, contented sound that squeezed my heart until it physically hurt.
I dipped my head, brushing my lips over her forehead. Then her temple.Then her cheek. And finally, finally, her mouth. I kissed her softly, deeply, pouring every unspoken vow, every desperate promise into that kiss. She stirred faintly, her lips moving against mine in
