Dr.Wu maintained her professional demeanor, though I detected a flicker of interest.“Ms.Foster, I’d like to examine your concussion recovery first.Mr.Roberts, Juniper will see to your injuries.”
I reluctantly allowed myself to be separated from Felicity, though I positioned myself to keep her in my sightline as Juniper assessed the nearly-healed wounds from my battle with the bear.
“Your accelerated healing is functioning well,” the old healer observed quietly.“The mating bond has strengthened your recovery abilities.How long since the claiming?”
“One day,” I replied, watching as Dr.Wu examined Felicity.
Juniper nodded, applying a fragrant poultice to the few remaining wounds.“The physiological changes have already begun, then.Your human mate will need guidance as she experiences the effects of the bond.”
I knew what she meant.Though Felicity wouldn’t transform as I did, our connection would alter her in subtle ways.Already, I’d noticed her increased awareness, her instinctive responses to my moods through our connection.
“She’s strong,” I said simply.
Juniper’s smile deepened.“She would have to be, to match a wolf of your lineage.”
Before I could respond, the clinic door opened.I didn’t need to turn to recognize the scent.It was a Song.Logan.
I pivoted to face him, positioning myself between the newcomer and Felicity.Logan stood in the doorway, his imposing frame nearly filling it.Our eyes locked in silent assessment.We were two alphas recognizing each other’s power without challenge.
“Roberts,” he acknowledged with a slight nod.“Word travels fast in small towns.”
“Song.”I kept my tone neutral.We’d met occasionally in human business circles, maintaining the careful distance of wolves from different packs.We were neither enemy nor friend, merely wary acquaintances bound by the necessity of coexistence.
His gaze shifted briefly to Felicity, noting the claiming mark with a raised eyebrow before returning his attention to me.“I see congratulations are in order.”
The bond between Felicity and me hummed with her sudden tension.I felt her uncertainty through our connection, her awareness of the power dynamics at play.
“Thank you,” I replied, the words formal but sincere.“This is Felicity Foster, my mate.”
Logan inclined his head respectfully in her direction.“Welcome to Angel Spring, Ms.Foster.I trust Dr.Wu is taking good care of you both.”
“She is,” Felicity answered, her voice steady despite her nervousness.“Thank you for the welcome.”
Logan’s posture relaxed marginally.“We have much to discuss about the future of the mine and its impact on the town, Roberts.The contamination issues have grown worse since your father’s passing.”
My jaw tightened at the mention of my father’s legacy.“Victoria’s involvement?”
“Suspected but not yet proven.”Logan’s expression darkened.“My aunt’s influence continues even from her exile.We suspect she has lackeys posted throughout your company.”
Felicity’s interest sharpened through our bond.Her background in risk assessment made her uniquely qualified to understand the implications.
“However, those discussions can wait until you’ve had time to recover.My team is at your disposal if you need additional resources.”
The offer was both generous and strategic.A show of alliance rather than challenge.I acknowledged it with a nod.“Appreciated.”
Our conversation was interrupted by the arrival of another familiar scent, one that triggered happier childhood memories.I turned toward the clinic entrance as an elderly man appeared, his weathered face lighting up with undisguised emotion when our eyes met.
“Daryl,” I said, my voice rougher than intended.
“Master Roberts.”The old servant’s formal address broke into a trembling smile.“Welcome home.We’ve missed you terribly, young master.”
Something tight loosened in my chest at the sight of him.Daryl was my father’s most trusted servant, the man who had helped raise me before my parents separated.He looked older, frailer than I remembered, but his eyes held the same steadfast loyalty.
“I’ve brought the Range Rover,” he continued, composing himself with visible effort.“Whenever you and the mistress are ready to depart.”
The casual designation of Felicity as mistress sent a surge of possessive pride through me.Daryl had immediately recognized and accepted her status without question.
Dr.Wu completed her examination of Felicity, providing her with a small container of healing ointment for her remaining scrapes and bruises.“You’re recovering well from the concussion, but take it easy for the next few days.No strenuous activity.”