I move through the pristine hallways, my footsteps echoing in the stillness—a familiar rhythm that everyone in this estate recognizes. The guards straighten the moment I pass, bowing with quiet, instinctive respect. Not for show. Not out of fear. Simply an acknowledgment of who I am…and who I protect.

The warmth from the living room greets me as soon as I step inside. A fresh fire crackles in the hearth, its light spilling across the room and illuminating my mate on the couch—nested beneath a pile of blankets and, I notice, more than a few pieces of my clothing.

A faint smile tugs at me. So sweet.

I cross the space and lift her carefully from her little nest, guiding her onto my lap where she fits so naturally. Here, she has warmth, stability…and the steady stream of pheromones I know soothe her more effectively than any blanket could.

“Keeping warm, my love?” I whisper against her ear. “Winter is approaching, and the temperature will drop soon. I want you prepared.”

But the truth is…there is no reality in which I would let her feel cold. Not even for a heartbeat. I would give every last bit of heat from my body before I’d ever let her freeze. Because if she’s worth protecting—and she is—then every ache is worth it.