Another Way

"Our pack," Theo said, correcting her. It hurt to hear her refer to it as his without including herself in it. He had marked her. She was his mate. Their future together was certain. Wasn't it?

"Our pack," she repeated softly. 

"Take your heart back. Or your soul. Whatever it is that you gave me to keep safe. Take it back," he said, stopping to stare into her black eyes that were now laced with pain. "Or drink from me. What is it that you need?" 

"I need you to stay safe," she said. "I need to keep you safe. I can do that better this way." 

"I do not need to be kept safe without you! I need YOU," he said, emphasizing the last word. "Not your heart… not your soul! I need you, Cora. Whatever it is you are facing, I am facing with you. Allow me that. Allow me the ability to help you."