The Lycan King's Captive
Even now, after weeks of me being his sole companion again, the moment you walk in, he chooses you.
I froze mid-stroke. Looking up to see Kieran near the door. I had not heard him come in until he spoke. He crossed the room in wide steps. His voice was careful, measured, but I could hear the edge beneath it.
"Animals are simpler than people," I offered quietly, trying to hide my trembling voice. "They do not hold grudges."
"No," Kieran agreed. "They just know who they can trust."
The implication hung in the air between us.