Accidental Surrogate

Trigger warning: suicidal ideation – please take care!

Ella

We’ve all been on a high ever since our meeting with the humans yesterday. No one expected more than one contact to attend, and we certainly didn’t anticipate Sabina Kelly. I was prepared to have a knock down, drag out fight in order to convince them to even give us a chance, but Moon Valley’s exiled mayor did all the work for us.

We later learned that our initial outreach fell on mostly deaf ears and if it hadn’t been for Sabina, no one would have even considered our offer to talk. It’s actually rather ironic – if Damon hadn’t manipulated the woman she probably wouldn’t have come forward, so his lack of scruples have directly laid the groundwork for his demise. Of course, this is nothing compared to learning that Sinclair may have prevented worse atrocities by moving against Damon when he did – I know that suggestion meant the world to him.

Still, it was not all so easy going. Many of the humans had very real concerns about creating alliances with actors who are basically political unknowns, and others seemed to genuinely struggle with fighting fire with fire. In the end the human representatives agreed to review our plans and provide feedback before undertaking further discussions about joining forces, and we’re scheduled to reconvene next week. My hope is that they’ll follow Sabina’s example by spreading the word and encouraging more of their own allies to join the next meeting, but for the time being it’s a waiting game.

I wish we had time to celebrate, because even though we didn’t quite get a victory, I think it’s important to celebrate the good things while we can. Instead I’m beginning my fourth hypnosis appointment. Sinclair and I agreed to try one last session with Leon before I set out to find my mother, and as happy as I am to have my mate beside me, I’m not looking forward to uncovering another painful episode from my past.

“How are you feeling, trouble?” Sinclair asks, stroking my hair as I lay on the sitting room sofa. His wolf has been even more protective and bossy than usual in the face of my impending departure, and it doesn’t help that I’ve been a walking basket case this morning. He’s done his level best to keep me calm and relaxed up to this point, and now the ether is taking the wheel. My senses are already dulling beneath the familiar fog of the drug – if it wasn’t for the solid cushions around me I might think I’m floating.

‘Twirly.” I answer with a giggle, petting his scruffy jaw and admiring his beautiful green eyes. The edges of his massive shape are blurring, and the room beyond his broad shoulders disappears completely. His face is the only thing in focus, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.

‘Twirly hmm?” Sinclair grins, catching my wrist and kissing my palm. He’s already purring, and belatedly I wonder if I can convince him to lie down with me. There’s not really room for both of us on the sofa, but I could lie on top of him or sit in his lap. The mere thought of feeling his arms wrapped around me sends my wolf into a fit of longing.

“You’re too far away.” I complain, not answering his question.

right here, little wolf.” He reminds me, his deep voice tender.

want to cuddle.” I pout, trying and failing to remember what else we’re supposed to be

the cuddles your little heart desires as soon as we’re done.” Sinclair promises, tracing his thumb over my protruding lower lip. I nip at the digit, catching it between my sharp fangs and running my tongue over the salty surface. His wolf rumbles in my head and my inner animal shivers with delight. She’s nuzzling and rubbing all over him, but he holds strong,

some more space between you.” Leon advises from somewhere behind

of the man. He says through our bond, Telling me what to

ask, not pausing to wonder why the

answers darkly, flashing his

on the session.” Leon replies easily. “Right now she’s so caught up in you that accessing her memories will

talented hands. “Alright sweetheart, you heard the mean man.” He tells me regretfully. “We have to focus.” I stretch my neck so I can see past Sinclair and stick my tongue out at Leon, and though he doesn’t say a word I know Sinclair

your eyes and let the ether take you back. Forget all your troubles, everything that’s happening in the here and now. Clear your mind and let the memories come to you.” He speaks in the same soporific tone he always uses, but the addition of Sinclair’s steady presence and comforting purrs allow me to fall into the mysterious realm faster than ever. Soon I’m gliding

becoming used to these altered states and I can’t find much frightening when

last time we met, you recalled meeting a mysterious woman at the orphanage

correct him,

He agrees, “can you remind me how you

question. “Safe. Loved…

purpose?” Leon inquires, latching onto the offered information with the demeanor of