Accidental Surrogate

A Private Chat Ella My face falls into stern, cold lines as I see my uncle step forward. He was invited to this party, of course, as part of the delegation – but honestly, after our stern message to the Atalaxians about how he was not welcome, I’m surprised that he was willing to attend.

I look up at Sinclair and follow his hard gaze towards his security team, which nods to him, assuring him that they fully vetted Xander, ensuring that he held no weapons or means of hurting us.

And considering that my mate is a weapon himself and could tear this man to pieces as easily as breathing, I suppose that there’s nothing to worry about either way. Still, I tighten my arms around my child and feel Sinclair bristle behind me, his hackles rising.

Inside me, my wolf has her teeth fully bared, snapping, eager to sink her teeth into this terrible man.

I don’t bother to calm her. Her rage is justified.

Perhaps sensing the effect he has on us, Xander smiles a little smugly and steps forward just one step, giving us a deep bow.

to offer you my congratulations on your ascension to the throne and the naming of your heir. It is…quite an accomplishment.” “Not without its obstacles, of course,” Sinclair says, a bit through his teeth. ” But yes, it is a wonderful day – though one darkened by your

brother’s child?” “My brother’s daughter,” Xander corrects, not bothering to be vicious with his words or to look at me, his eyes still on Rafe. “My focus rests on the male line.” Slowly, I turn and pass my child to his father, who takes him willingly. Then I take two steps forward,

mine, flinty and dark. “I am Atalaxian now.” “It does not matter to me,” I say, dismissive, and then – without really realizing what I’m doing – I access my gift. I don’t close my eyes to do it this time, instead allowing the lavender calmness to radiate from me,

hissing as my gift touches him, as he feels it begin

And I see…all of it, inside of

country you call home. I can see it within you – the cancer is taking hold, spreading throughout. Even if you had gotten Rafe away from us, you wouldn’t have lived long enough to enjoy any real time on your throne.” “Lies,” Xander hisses, taking a frightened step from me. “You are a witch – like all women -” “Enjoy the rest of your short life, Xander,” I say with a sigh, turning away from him and returning to Sinclair’s side, taking my child back into my arms. “We need not bother killing you. You’ll be dead soon.” “You have cursed me – ” “I didn’t need to,” I interrupt, my voice bored. “Now go away. We have celebrations to attend. I’ll tell Sarah and Jessica you said hello,” Xander stiffens at this, his eyes flashing as he looks between Sinclair and I. “My property – “he growls. “You will return them immediately – ” “People aren’t property, you horrible old fool.” Then I sigh and turn my eyes to Sinclair’s guards and nod. Instantly, they come forward and grab Xander by the arms, dragging him away. He makes a

turn towards Sinclair, resting my head

up at him. ” I’m sorry – did I…I don’t want to cause an international incident. I hope I did right there.” A little smile turns up his lips. “You did perfectly, Queen,” he says, running his knuckles down my cheek. “Do you need a moment?” “Would you mind?” I ask, looking towards the open door to a small balcony nearby. “Just to…collect myself.” “Not at all,” he says, reaching for the baby. But I hold

him with me,” I say, grimacing a

with you, but-” “No,” I say, smiling up at him. “The people need their King. We won’t keep them waiting.” He nods, proud of me, and I whisper again that I’ll only take a moment before heading directly for the balcony and the fresh air it promises. I hear footsteps behind me and look curiously