Page 75 of Mated to the Wolves

“How much?” she asks.

“Eight ounces of both should do it.”

Maggie measures the herbs out on the scales, and stores them in glass bottles.

“What did you mean earlier?” I pierce Kirk with a stare when he accepts the bag.

“Let’s take a walk while your young man does his rounds.”

I meet Kirk’s gaze, and he nods his approval.

“Okay.”

“It was time for my lunch break anyway.” She slips her open sign to closed and leads us out of the shop.

“I usually check in to see if anyone needs treatment or advice.”

“Go.” I can see his conflict. I won’t stand between him and those in need.

He pauses. “Are you sure?”

The nervousness is adorable. It doesn’t fit his usual calm demeanor.

“Positive. I’ll be fine.”

“I assure you her safety,” Maggie says.

“Alright. I’ll go to the infirmary.” He steps back, and pauses, hesitating.

Maggie smiles. “Well, that’s a change of pace for the Doc. I can see you’ll be good for him.”

I snicker. “Are you a seer?”

“My family has a touch of the sight. I know who you are; one of Fenrir’s children.”

I’m not surprised she knows given the powerful aura surrounding her. “I’m glad someone did.”

“It’s a rumor most have forgotten about.”

“But not you?” I study her.

“We’ve been waiting for change, you represent that.”

“I wouldn’t be so sure.” We continue to walk through the town. She waves at others and exchanges greetings.

“You lost your family young, so a sense of community and belonging must be all new to you.”

“Yes. I was brought home against my will and had this dumped into my lap.” Unable to resist her maternal lure, I speak honestly.

Her salt and paper brows arch high. “Explain?” The indignation on my behalf feels good.

She listens as I relay my past week. The anger flashing in her dark brown eyes reassures, loosening the tight muscles in my neck.

“I’m sorry you had to experience that. Desperate people make poor, ignorant choices.”

Stern, yet compassionate, she reminds me of my mother. We come to a stop at a small shed-like building.

“I want to show you something.” She steps forward, unlatches the door and pulls it open. “Not all of us have forgotten the wolf king we believe we descended from.”

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