Chapter 44

• The fire is beautiful," Rhea whispered, her voice almost inaudible as she watched the dance of the fire across the hearth. The lake house was quiet. The other three alphas were out on patrol, and only her and Ash remained. The quiet was thick with the heat and warmth of the two of them.
• It's not so pretty as you are," Ash replied, his voice low, husky. He was beside her, his arm across her shoulders, pulling her close. His was the opposite of the cold, distant alpha she had seen. His was warm, comforting, and full of a love that wrapped itself around her, keeping her safe.
• "I am not pretty, Ash," she said to him, shaking her head. "I have scars. I have memories. I have the marks of a life of pain and fear."