Accidental Surrogate

Sinclair shook his head almost as soon as the words were out of Ella’s mouth. The idea was intriguing, but it would never succeed. “That’s not how it works – we aren’t mates. My kind only gets one, and everyone already knows I found mine many years ago.” Sinclair informed her coolly.

“But… you got divorced.” Ella’s words were tremulous and hesitant, as if she was afraid to bring up the subject. She’d clearly been very busy with her research. He was about to tell her off, when his wolf roared in his head. Enough! Stop this, you know she’s right – it’s better for everyone this way.

Sinclair was taken aback, his wolf never disagreed with him – they’d always been on the same page about everything. The pup is most important, it needs its mother. His wolf continued, besides, she’s not asking you for anything – if she was just a gold-digger like Lydia, she’d be eager to move in with you.

I don’t know. Sinclair thought. It’s worth taking a second look at Ella’s background but –

No buts! His wolf interrupted. Give her what she wants.

Why are you so determined about this? Sinclair demanded, surprised by his inner canine’s insistence.

We can’t hurt Ella. His wolf proclaimed fiercely. She’ll suffer if we take the pup away.

Sinclair had to admit he didn’t want the lovely human to be in pain, but he still didn’t trust her. His wolf on the other hand was absolutely adamant, and all shifters knew better than to question their animal instincts. Intuition didn’t lie – not when it came to the supernatural.

“Fine.” He grumbled. “But only if you help with my campaign. It won’t be easy, there’s more to being a Luna than standing on my arm and looking pretty.”

Ella’s face lit up so brightly Sinclair had to fight his smile. His wolf on the other hand, actually wagged his tail like an excited puppy. What the hell is going on with me? He thought, speaking more to himself than his wolf – who was clearly losing his mind.

“What’s a Luna?” Ella asked curiously, barely able to contain her joy but trying to remain engaged in the conversation.

“It’s an Alpha’s mate.” Sinclair explained, realizing just how much he was going to have to teach her. “And for the record, this little arrangement will only last until I meet a she-wolf who might fill the role for real.”

just told me werewolves only get one mate.”

only get one fated mate. Chosen mates are completely different. We can choose as many as we like, but the Goddess only grants us one fated love.” Sinclair informed

as in weaker?” Ella

just different.” Sinclair corrected. “Not all fated mates are a good fit, and some chosen couples are much

find another mate, I won’t be allowed to see the baby anymore?” Ella asked, gnawing on her lower

be very clear that this agreement only lasts as long as it works. If we can’t find a way to get along well enough to convince people or if I learn that this is all another one of your tricks–” Ella’s eyes flared with anger,

pink, she set her shoulders as if preparing herself

agreed, “As soon as you pack

but take her in hand. He Reached out and caught her chin between his thumb and forefinger, tilting her pretty face up to his. “And Ella – the first rule of being

was squirming again, positively overflowing with defiance. He had to give her credit, for someone who’d only just learned about the existence of werewolves, she certainly wasn’t afraid of him. In fact, she was showing much more bravery than many fully grown wolves did facing down an Alpha. Of course, there were

a moment Ella settled, looking up at Sinclair from beneath her

praised, dragging his thumb over her full bottom

glimmering shade of

____________________

Sinclair’s mansion, she was beside herself with confusion. She’d started her negotiation with him feeling completely in control, but now it seemed like he’d completely turned the tables on her. She wasn’t sure when or how it had happened, but the bossy werewolf had somehow managed to get the better of her.

overflowing with thoughts, but the moment she stepped into the bedroom Sinclair had prepared for her, her mind went entirely blank. It was the same room she’d woken up in that afternoon, but everything

the massive whirlpool tub in the bathroom, just waiting for her to arrive. Ella could barely take in all the finery and amenities Sinclair had brought in, including a craft table and miniature fridge full of drinks and snacks. There was even a massage table set up

down at her, not seeming to understand why she was so surprised. “Pups are more important than

somewhat bitterly. It’s not for me, it’s for the

golden bell. “Ring this

trying to push the bell away. “I don’t feel comfortable being waited on