Page 42 of Auctioned Mate

He groaned while stepping past me. He gestured to the garden, to the life that grew as a result of my care and commitment. “Look at what you’ve built.”

I laughed, more of an irritated response than one of amusement. “We haven’t been here long enough for me to build anything.”

“You’ve granted life to so many from one action.”

“She’s not entirely safe yet.”

He glanced to the right of the cabin, to the window that observed the backyard. “She’s more than safe with you, Juriah. She’s full of life. I should have never suggested sending her away.”

His demeanor had changed. His countenance held tenderness as he turned to me, a small smile playing on his lips.

My right brow rose. “Why are you changing your mind?”

“Because you care for the woman. I can see that.”

“See what?”

He chuckled. “You never were very good at playing dumb, Juriah.”

“I don’t know what you mean.”

Yet I knew precisely his implication.

While confusion ran circles around my mind, I felt strongly for Macy. I felt responsible for her safety and happiness. I wanted nothing more than to keep her in my clutches so I could ensure her security. No other action would be acceptable regarding this matter. I wouldn’t allow anyone to make up my mind for me.

Perhaps I was as stubborn as she was.

Izdor grinned and invited me into the yard. “Come on. Let’s go for a walk.”

“But—”

“She’s fine, Juriah. Etta has been renewing the wards every week.”

I glanced over my shoulder. “I don’t like leaving her alone.”

“She feels the same.”

I growled. “Would you stop spying on my little wolf?”

“Yourlittle wolf?” He held up his hands and showed me his palms. “My apologies, Juriah. I had no idea it was that serious.”

“It’s not serious.”

He gave a teasing grin. “Sure, and I’m the king of Buckingham Palace.”

“Don’t taunt me. I’m not ignorant.”

“Just to her feelings about you.”

I snorted with disbelief as I shut the porch door and descended the steps. “She has no feelings for me other than irritation and bitterness.”

“She’s just flustered because she wants to ride you.”

“Izzy!”

Cackles echoed through the trees as we approached them, mostly from Izdor, and partly from my disbelief in his candid statement. A layer of shame wrestled me over Macy, an odd and protective sheen that forced me to keep the details of our encounters to myself. It must have rubbed off from her. I had never been shy about this in the past.

As his chuckles faded, he patted my shoulder. “Don’t worry. I won’t tell anyone.”

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