Wolf Crying Mate of the Alpha by Jazz Ford

‘Of course, but before we do, I know Sir Hugo told everyone you would help fight against the werewolves, but you won’t be. I know about your elemental powers, and I intend to keep you safe, preferably here, away from the war,’ he explains. ‘I’m grateful that you care about my safety, but I’m not…

‘You’re about to go to your very first one then,’ I tell him, ‘Well, that has solved that conundrum very quickly. We’ll go to the ball and find Maia,’ Troy says, smiling. Before bed, I tell the children their favourite bedtime story, which happens to be the story of Maia the Forest Princess. Afterwards, they…

They look at me, unsure how to respond. ‘Does this someone have a name?’ Jewel asks, pulling the chair from against the wall and sitting in it. ‘Do you swear not to tell a soul?’ I ask. ‘I swear,’ they chorus again and look at each other, wondering who the object of my affections could…

‘You know, you’d make quite the jester in our castle court,’ he says, chuckling. ‘How long until we’re at the castle?’ I ask. ‘Around a day and a half maybe sooner,’ he replies. At twilight, Sir Hugo decides to make camp for the night, ties the horse and me to a tree, and collects twigs…

‘Of course, I’m sure there is a lot you’d like to know.’ I nod. King Fenris helps me into the carriage. ‘I’ll be back in a moment,’ he says, and I watch him return to a large tent. He sits beside me in the carriage with a water pouch and a big smile. He is…

‘I’m so glad you accepted my offer of hospitality during these dangerous times,’ he says happily, his hands neatly clasped together. ‘King Fenris?’ I ask. ‘At your service.’ he smiles. ‘I’ve seen you before… in my dreams.’ I say. The two men and King Fenris laugh. ‘Oh princess, there is no need to try and…

Two footmen, a little shorter than I, stand by two twelve-foot-tall, white-glossed, open doors, holding their long gold handles, on ceremony. ‘Your Grace,’ they say, bowing, and we walk inside the castle before stopping in front of a middle-aged woman in a long-sleeved, black dress and a keyring full of keys pinned to her dress…

‘You know Maia?’ Troy asks, marvelling at how small the world is. ‘Of course, I know, Maia. She is my dear friend. She visits my twin girls and me every few days,’ Vivian explains, smiling. ‘You have twin girls?’ Troy asks, surprised. ‘Yes, Ella and Grace. A friend is minding them,’ she adds. ‘You have…

‘Well, you can thank King Fenris for his offer, but I’ll be fine right here,’ I say. Sir Hugo grins. ‘I was hoping my sweet charm would persuade you to let me escort you back to King Fenris.’ ‘Sorry, but you lack the sweet charm. Better luck next time.’ My response angers him, but I…

‘Maia?’ Vivian shouts, and I watch her push her way through the gathering. ‘Vivian!’ I yell, in obvious distress. Many people look at Vivian and wonder how we know each other. ‘Are you okay?’ She asks. ‘I’ve been kidnap-,’ I say. A sharp blade pokes my back in a warning to not speak. ‘I have…