Chapter 159: Separation

Ella

"What do you mean, you might not take me with you?" I demanded, barely processing Sinclair's words.

"We're mated," he said. "Where you go, I go."

"Baby, I don't want to be away from you," Sinclair sighed, a wave of genuine regret washing through our bond. This wasn't the first time he'd done this—I'd felt his emotions before—but this was the strongest I'd ever experienced.

Through our connection, I sensed how much Sinclair hated the idea of leaving me behind. His wolf was practically rabid with anger, worry, and sadness. Even as the emotions flooded in, I saw a way to use them to my advantage. If he felt this strongly, convincing him to take me wouldn't be too difficult.

"The problem is, I have no idea what I'm walking into with these meetings," Sinclair explained. "I've been to Vanara before and know a few Alphas, but most of the packs I'm visiting are unknowns. I don't know the territories, the threats, the conditions, or how well we'll be received."

"How much time are we talking about?" I asked, needing to understand the scope of this potential separation.

"Weeks, maybe a month," he said, shaking his head. I felt his frustration. "I've been trying to figure out which terrifies me more: taking you with me and putting you in danger, or leaving you behind where I can't protect you."

"It's definitely safer to have me with you," I said confidently. "You're the one who said I'm only truly safe in your arms."

Sinclair laughed warmly, pulling me closer. "Why do I feel like you're not being entirely objective?"

"Because you're so blinded by your love for me that you assume I am too," I declared, straddling his lap. "But don't worry, I'm completely unbiased."

"Oh, so you're not blinded by your love for me?" Sinclair teased, stroking my sides.

"It's different," I hedged. "I'm not sure how, but it is."

"Being adorable won't change my mind, you know," Sinclair said gently, caressing my cheek.

"That sounds like you've already decided," I murmured, my insides twisting. My wolf whimpered in my head, and before I could wonder if Sinclair heard it, he responded, confirming that he did. He began to purr, pulling me close and tucking my head under his chin.

"I haven't decided anything yet. I'm conflicted," Sinclair admitted. "I'm leaning towards leaving you here with Gabriel, Roger, and Dad. I trust them and the security here. I want you with me, but it feels irresponsible… selfish, like I'm prioritizing my comfort over your safety."

"But I want to be with you, too. So if it's selfish, let's be selfish together," I pleaded. Pushing away, I widened my eyes and pouted dramatically. "Please don't leave me, Dominic." I trailed my hands down his chest. "My wolf won't obey anyone else. I'll get into trouble without you, and no one will be able to reign me in."

A fierce growl vibrated in Sinclair's chest, making the hair on my neck stand on end. His hand closed over my nape, the pressure making me quiver. "News flash, trouble," he said. "If I go without you, I'll have the others keep track of your mischief so I can hold you accountable when I return."

I fought a shiver as his authority washed over me, so I changed tactics. "Fine, but who will pleasure me when I wake up in the middle of the night, aching for you?"

Sinclair laughed, capturing my mouth with his. I gasped as our lips met, and he deepened the kiss. Only when my mouth was swollen and I'd forgotten our conversation did he release me. He held my gaze, massaging my rose-gold hair. I leaned into his touch, and he kissed the hollow of my throat. "When that happens, you'll call me to your dreams and tell me exactly what you need. And then I'll happily ravish you to my heart's content."

"You mean my heart's content?" I clarified.

"No. I meant what I said," he answered with a smirk. I laughed and rested my head on his shoulder. "Alright, big bad wolf," I conceded. "Just promise you'll think about this. We'll both be happier together. Less anxious. I'll always be in your sight or reach. That's worth a lot."

"I'll think about it," Sinclair agreed. "There are advantages, I just need to be sure it's right."

"Thank you," I exhaled, feeling so comfortable I almost dozed off. I truly thought I'd gotten through to him. I felt how strongly he wanted me with him, and this conversation had gone a long way in convincing him to trust that impulse.

The next day, I visited the refugees arriving at the port. Sinclair stayed at the Palace to plan, but Henry, Roger, Cora, and I went with Gabriel's royal guards. The refugees arrived much as we had—crammed into small planes, carrying all their belongings, lost and depleted at the air base. Gabriel was trying to find housing for them, relying on Vanarans willing to open their homes. I was determined to help find the best solutions.

Crossing the Vanarium bridge, I felt renewed awe at our surroundings. But my admiration faded as we arrived at the triage tents for the injured and displaced shifters. Some were injured, others separated from families, still others grieving.

I braced myself, only to be distracted by Cora's fidgeting. My sister was acting strangely, shooting wary glances at Roger, then pretending he didn't exist if he reciprocated. This morning, she'd fallen silent or walked away when he was near. My instincts weren't alarming, but I couldn't miss the tension.

So, when we exited the car, I sidled up to my brother-in-law. "Why is my sister acting like a startled hare every time you look at her?" I muttered.

"I don't think she's a big fan of mine," he conceded.

"Why not? What did you do?" I asked accusingly.

"Why assume I'm at fault?" Roger joked, feigning offense.

"Because I know my sister, and I know you," I snorted, only partly serious. My sister was flawed, but I was biased towards her.

Roger shrugged. "We talked the other day, and I think she found my questions too personal." His voice held an unusual note. For the first time, I considered that Roger's interest in Cora might not be entirely innocent. "What kind of questions?"

Roger laughed. "Nothing bad. I asked about her dreams and ambitions. I think she's struggling with leaving her job and life in Moon Valley," he said, gesturing around.

Guilt pierced me. I hadn't even checked in with Cora. I'd been so preoccupied with my life and the war that I'd forgotten this transition wouldn't be easy for her. I made a mental note to talk to her—about fleeing and Roger's interest. But there was no time now. Dozens of wolves waited, and though I was apprehensive about the suffering I was about to witness, I knew my people deserved to be heard. I had to be strong—to make my mate proud and do right by the pack.