Accidental Surrogate

It turned out she didn’t need to, because James’s sly wolf immediately took advantage of the extra space between them He shifted closer and looped an arm around Isabel’s waist, the heat of hiss fingers searing the she-wolf’s lower back through the thin fabric of her dress. A noticeable shiver raced down her spine, and Isabel glowered as James smirked. ’Tell me why you aren’t happy to have a day off.” She deflected, trying to breathe in Sadie’s pure scent without also taking in the soldier’s enticing fragrance.

James sighed, “I know this isn’t the case, but part of me worries that Dominic only gave the order because he thinks I’ve lost my edge.” When Isabel looked confused, he continued, “Yesterday we found out that it was probably my fault that the spy who bombed his convoy got into Vanara. The working theory is that he disguised himself as a refugee and snuck onto one of my flights last week.”

A beat of silence met his words, and for one horrible moment, James was terrified that Isabel would lose her interest in him. What good was he as a mate or father if he made such grave mistakes? If he couldn’t detect lethal threats and endangered the very people he was meant to keep safe?

Instead, Isabel’s face transformed from pensive to horrified. “He might have killed you! Do they think Damon is going to send more assassins this way? What if the next one decides to take over the plane? What if his army lies in wait at the coast and ambushes you?” Her panic was so swift and sharp that Sadie began to squirm and fuss, feeling the unpleasant feeling filtering down through there bond.

James’s wolf was conflicted. He didn’t like seeing Isabel upset one bit, but he certainly enjoyed seeing her so disturbed by the thought of harm coming to him. He began to purr, stroking her spine and pressing his chest to Sadie’s back so she could feel the comforting vibrations. “You’re not worried about me, are you little wolf??” He asked, only slightly smug.

As he’d hoped, the jibe snapped Isabel back to her usual self, and the frightened look in her brilliant blue eyes faded. “I’m not going to let my daughter lose another parent.” She proclaimed sharply, tightening her grip on Sadie and adding her own soft sounds to the soothing efforts. “So help me James, if you make her lose you too, I will never forgive you.”

“I have no intention of going anywhere, Isabel.” James promised, grazing his knuckles over her cheek. “If someone wants to take me from you two they’re going to have one hell of a fight on their hands. I won’t go down easily.”

get out of there. Don’t go doing noble things like turning back to save babies or…” She trailed off, her voice thick with emotion. She tried

precious pup like this sweet muffin behind, just to save my own ass?” They were so close now that he could see the moisture welling in her eyes, and the near imperceptible quiver

know I don’t want you to die.” Isabel replied grumpily, deciding that enough was enough. She started to get out of bed, but James

miss me?” His suggested, the spike

scent triggering his prey drive. His wolf was coming to the surface, and Isabel’s was responding in kind.

baby and get everything ready for the visit this morning. The delegations

agreed, his eyes glowing now, “in exchange

froze, looking remarkably like a startled rabbit. “Don’t be ridiculous.” She

could happen?” He temped her. “You’ve kissed me before, and I

distraught.” Isabel bit back,