Page 59 of Royal Bite
“But wait, we can’t leave them unguarded,” Stormey said. She glanced down at Maisie’s wide eyes, and her heart lurched. She couldn’t fathom something happening to them. There was no security here at the orphanage. The children would be sitting ducks. Who would protect them?
“We’ll utilize our human team and ensure they are protected. Cezar, tonight, have a couple warriors stay until daylight.” Hegna turned back to her, seeking her approval.
Stormey smiled, relieved that the women and children at the orphanage would have some form of protection.
“Thank you.”
“Your Grace,” Cezar called out her name.
Hegna took Stormey’s hand and assisted her into the back of the sedan. She turned to him once he arrived at her side.
“Lukas and Spencer will remain behind and guard the orphanage tonight,” Cezar said.
“And the human militia?” Hegna asked.
She had commandeered a deal with the local reserve military force. The humans created their own defense services that would defend the territories they created. These men and women who served in the militia were for the protection of their fellow man and had decided to work with Hegna and her armies when needed. In return, Hegna ensured their men and women had the latest technologies when it came to weapons.
“I spoke with their leader who also saw the lycan’s broadcast. They will send someone soon and will keep watch over the children and females who live here.”
Hegna nodded, satisfied. She hadn’t liked the look of fear in Stormey’s eyes at the thought of leaving everyone who called the orphanage home unprotected. If the lycans descended on the older mansion, no one would survive.
“Very good,” she said.
Cezar slammed his fist to his chest and bowed. She slid into the vehicle beside Stormey and shut the door. Stormey turned to her, a soft smile on her lips. She slipped across the seat and pressed herself to Hegna. She dropped a kiss to Hegna’s lips before easing back.
“What is that for?” Hegna asked.
“For everything you’ve offered to do to help the orphanage and the kindness you showed Maisie,” Stormey said. She took Hegna’s hand in hers. “Corbin told me I could do what I want with the allowance I’m given.”
“You can,” Hegna murmured.
Cezar and Desmond entered the vehicle. Soon, they were pulling off and headed back to the castle.
“I wanted to make sure you could do whatever you wanted, or purchase whatever you may need that we haven’t already provided.”
“That is sweet of you.” Stormey chuckled, squeezing Hegna’s hand. “You do have a heart under here, don’t you?” She reached up and tapped on Hegna’s chest above her heart.
“Of course I do. I am many things, but I am not cruel. Those children are probably orphans because of the war, be it directly or indirectly, and I can’t stand by and watch them suffer. They are innocent,” Hegna said. It was true. She was many things, but cruel toward the innocent was not her. As the warden of her territory, it was her responsibility to see that all were taken care of and protected. “And you are correct. They need protection. Azura needs to be dealt with, and we will ensure that she will not harm anyone.”
Hegna hadn’t shared with Stormey what she had learned about the Canadian town. Stormey was such a caring person that Hegna was sure she’d be distraught to hear what had happened to the human town.
“You are going to go after her, aren’t you?” Stormey asked.
Hegna turned to her mate and hesitated. Was this what she was supposed to do? Share information with her human? She made a note to speak with Velika and Lethia. Did they share duties or plans with their humans?
“I am,” Hegna said. This was something she would admit. Stormey would not have to worry about anything. Hegna was a strong vampire, and even though she hadn’t fed as she should, she could still take down the alpha.
At the thought of feeding, Hegna’s eyes dropped down to Stormey’s neck. She inhaled, taking in the sweet smell of Stormey. The pounding of her pulse reached Hegna’s ears. Stormey’s winter cloak covered her skin, but she could still sense the rushing of her blood as it flowed through her body.
“Can I ask you something?” Stormey asked.
Hegna snapped her attention to Stormey’s eyes. Something in her tone set off an alarm in the back of her mind.
“Sure.” Hegna cleared her throat and fought the descent of her fangs. She blinked and focused on her mate.
That word sent a rush of desire through her. She fought to concentrate on Stormey as she turned to Hegna.
“As the lady of the castle, will I be—”
