Page 28 of Alpha Claimed

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APOLLO

Apollo's wolfhowled at the feel of River's pain. He wanted to be let out to comfort her.

Mine. My mate.

Yeah, bud. I know.

Mark. Take.

No, that's not what she needs.

His wolf grumbled.

Apollo's wolf wasn't the only part of him that wanted to take River and make her his. But he told his smaller head to chill out as well.

He'd never wanted or needed anything so much in his life as he did River, and yet he kept himself from taking that one thing. From claiming her and making her his forever. It went against everything he'd ever been taught. Every instinct. Every desire. It was like telling himself he didn't need to breathe anymore. It didn't matter how long he held his breath. Eventually, he would breathe again. And he knew it would be the same with River if he wasn't careful.

Sooner or later, his instincts would take over. He just prayed that when they did, he would also have the strength to hold himself back. Or, better yet, that she would say yes.

* * *

RIVER

"What should we do today?"

Apollo pulled her closer. "I like what we're doing right now."

Her stomach rumbled, and she laughed. "I do, too, but my stomach has other opinions."

"Then it's good I sent Bennett out this morning for a bakery run."

River shot up. "You mean you've had baked goods waiting and didn't tell me?"

He shrugged. "Why would I tell you when you taste better than any pastry ever could." A roguish smile crossed his face.

She leaned in close and stopped just an inch from his mouth. "Because I didn't get to eat."

"You're welcome to taste any part of me."

River couldn't help but smile. He raised his hand to touch her face, but she jumped off the bed and made for the door.

She'd just gotten it open when Apollo leaped up and slammed it shut, leaning on it. A growl escaped him.

"There is no way in hell you are going out there in just that sheet."

She looked down. "But my clothes stink, and I have nothing else to wear."

He nodded. "I will go get you the food."

"I don't want to be cooped up here all day."

"Then I will send Silas to get you some clothes."

"He won't know what I'd wear."

"Then tell me, and I will tell him."