　　"Mated?To me?"She knew her mouth was hanging open in shock.Darting a glance across the room,she saw Kane staring at her blandly,his hands behind his back.If her expression offended him,he didn't show it.She looked at her father,blinking to hold back the tears that threatened to fall."But...What about Bryan?"
　　"I'm aware you've had your eye on him,but this is for the good of the pack.We need strong alliances so that we can guard against the human threat.And,allied packs allow access between territories and increase the area in which we have to roam."He stopped speaking and placed a comforting hand on her shoulder."I know this is a surprise,but don't worry.Kane is a good man.He'll make you a fine mate."
　　Elise had no idea when she came home that day that she'd end up mated to a complete stranger.A new Alpha and the need for an alliance between packs have made her a pawn Excerpt:She lay beside him,staring blankly at the ceiling.The deed was done.They were mated.It didn't matter that she had no love for him nor he for her.Political alliances were more important than feelings...

Mated To The Lycan King

　　Elise turned to face the newcomer.As she'd suspected it was Marla,though her attire was decidedly un-Marla-ish.Sturdy boots,jeans,and a winter jacket weren't Marla's usual garb and would almost lead a person to think the woman was planning to do physical labour of some kind.She was smiling too,though it didn't reach her eyes.


　　Rose stood up and nodded in greeting."I wondered when you'd get here."


　　"I knew you'd wait for me.Why should I hurry?"Marla flipped her hair arrogantly and Rose compressed her lips,as if holding back a retort.Instead,she replied in her usual quiet tones.


　　"Well,we don't want to keep Elise too long.You'll never guess what exciting news she has.Did you know that she and Kane have blood­bonded?I'm sure he'll be keeping tabs on her now."She strangely over-emphasized the words‘blood-bonded'.


CHAPTER 59