Pleased, Rydan returned his attention to Amara. He slipped an arm around her waist and gently steered her away from the others. “Come. You need to rest.”
That night, Rydan remained at Amara’s side. They were intimate, though he was careful with her—mindful of the unborn life she carried. Afterward, he pulled her close beneath the sheets, his hand running along her side.
“Don’t think about Marian anymore,” he whispered, brushing a kiss over her shoulder. “You need peace. Focus on yourself and our child.”
Amara gave a bashful nod. “Yes, Alpha. Your wisdom is unmatched. I’ll do as you say.”
The night melted into soft sighs and warm embraces. Rydan held her possessively, pressing her closer, his need to protect her deepening with every breath she took beside him.
But something was off.
He couldn’t place it, but a chill crept over him, spreading like frost beneath his skin. His eyes shifted toward the open window, and he noticed the absence of moonlight.
A moonless night.
He gave a quiet breath, shook off the feeling, and tightened his arms around Amara before surrendering to sleep.
Sleep came swiftly. Too easily.
Until it didn’t.