Page 39 of Alpha Claimed

"I have the tools," said Bennett. "I can get it out, but it won't feel good. I think it's best if you… leave."

Apollo went to protest, but Bennett stopped him. "Do you want me to do it right, or do you want me to do it when my wolf is scared you are going to bite his head off at her slightest discomfort?"

Apollo knew Bennett was right, but his wolf didn't want to comply.

"I have an idea that can keep us busy while he works," said Silas. "Something to take the edge off for you and your wolf."

Apollo looked at River again. He couldn't leave her.

Mine. My mate. No males. Mine.

I can't stand to hear her in pain. I'll kill Bennett if we don't go.

No, go! Stay. Protect.

Apollo swallowed hard.I am protecting her. If we hurt him, she will never forgive herself or us. We must go to protect her.

She nudged him with her nose, and he dug his fingers into her silky mane. He kissed her face before standing and backing away.

His wolf bellowed at him, but he forced himself to move away.

"I'll stay with her," Lachlan offered.

Stupid pup. Didn't he know that was the absolute wrong thing to say?

Silas laid his hand on Apollo's shoulder and pulled Apollo out the door.

River's gaze never left his until he hit the exit, and the screen door swung closed.

He stood for a moment, fighting every instinct to rush back to her side.

She whimpered, and he turned.

Silas grabbed him by the shoulders. "Apollo. Don't. It will only hurt both of you even more."

Apollo's wolf rushed to the surface and banged against his restraints, almost snapping them.

"I have to-"

Silas yanked Apollo away from the door, and Apollo turned on him and grabbed him by the throat. He bared his fangs and roared at Silas.

Silas stared at him but didn't react.

River. River. My River.

A moment passed, and then another, and Apollo dropped Silas to his feet. He removed his hand from Silas' throat and growled.

"So, what's your plan?"

* * *

RIVER

River breatheda sigh of relief when Apollo exited the cabin. Physical pain was one thing, but dealing with his emotional pain, anger as well as guilt on top was something she couldn't handle. Not mixed with her own.

"Highness," said Bennett. "It'll be easier to get the bullets out if you transform back to your human form."

She nodded and tried to shift, but her wolf refused to give up control. She tried again and again, but her wolf refused. River tried reasoning with her, but that didn't work. So, finally, River did the only thing left—the thing she only did if absolutely necessary. She hated it, but this was for both of them.