Chapter 26: Unveiling Strength

Randelle

"It's a new day."

I smiled as I sat on top a mossy boulder breathing deep the wet evergreen scents wreathing the dawn-kissed glen.

The birdsong and the melodic rush of the swollen creek gradually eased tight muscles in my back, the morning's tranquility balm to battle-rattled senses.

The threat of Rivero's marauders had passed like an angry storm front, though his final venomous words still haunted...was our victory merely the eye of a more destructive tempest ahead?

Soft footfalls rustled behind me. I turned with a smile to greet Jeremy's approach, taking in the pensive cast to his bearded features. My mate hoisted himself lightly beside me, the boulder barely shifting beneath his bulk.

For a time we simply soaked in harmonious surroundings, the press of our shoulders and synchronized breathing enough. But chilling memories would not release their grip so easily.

Jeremy sighed heavily, his brooding gaze miles away. "Can't say I much fancy the notion of Rico and his jackal