“Don’t worry, Hallie is one of our most liberal wardens and thought your talent was cool.”
“You trust she won’t tell anyone?”
“Hallie is my niece and very protective of her human charges.”
Niece? Funny, no one mentioned her powerful aunt. “Really?”
“Any questions before I hang up?”
“How is Steele?”
“He is taking his royal duties to heart. Next month, he and Kiara will undergo the bonding ritual.”
“I see.” That seemed soon. But then again, the only way to appease the king. And keep her alive.
“I’m sorry. His intention was not to hurt you.”
“I know.”
“Record your conversation with Tomlin and let Hallie listen. She’ll send me the details and possibly his whereabouts.”
“Yes, ma’am.” The conversation ended and she felt less secure than she had earlier. Not to mention broken hearted. Once they mated, she’d never see Steele again.
Hallie walked in. “What’s the latest with my aunt?”
“How did you know…it was Rylee?”
She wiggled an earlobe. “The better to hear you wolf ears.”
“Got it. You seem so human, I almost forgot.”
She shot Gaby a satisfied smile. “Yep, I’m that good.”
“I don’t know why I assumed Rylee had no relatives.”
“Her younger sister, Rhonda is my mother. She married Conner Lovell, my father.”
“I see. Anyway, she wants me to call Tomlin tonight. Apparently, Project Sabertooth had Mr. H. killed.”
“So I heard. He was one of our best.”
“I feel bad, like it was my fault.”
“You helped a royal prince escape. In my book, you’re a hero.”
“Thanks.” At this point, Gaby didn’t care if Tomlin found her. Why wait? Then again, she’d hate to put Hallie in danger. Not to mention disobey Rylee and prove her failure to follow orders. Yet, she was no longer the scared girl willing to obey Project Sabertooth orders. She had the power to unleash a flock of birds on him if she so chose. Peck him and Ken to death.
Steele paced in his chambers and worried about Gaby. His hands locked into fists. Why had Rylee refused to let him know where she’d been moved? Classified. At least, she informed him Gaby remained safe. It had been three days since he had seen Gaby, but it felt like an eternity. He’d never felt so alone and empty. How did she feel? Now free of lycan territory and Project Sabertooth, she’d finally have the life she deserved. Find a man to love? Children? He sighed. He was in no mood for dinner. Sinclair had called him twice to come eat. His heart refused, but his empty stomach growled in protest. He headed to the private dining area. At least his brother was in Norway and Kiara back at her castle, for now.
“Prince Steele, I’m happy you’ve decided to dine.”
Good old Sinclair. The royal butler was devoted to his family for decades. He’d never eaten with him, his role always the servant. “Join me.”
Sinclair bowed. “Yes, of course, I’d be delighted.”
He gestured for him to sit and handed him a bottle of red wine. “Do you think I should mate Kiara?”
Sinclair looked alarmed at such a bold question. “Sir, it’s not my place.”