The moment they left, I sealed the bedroom with mountain ash and activated the security locks.
$10,000 worth of security features. Money well spent.
I stripped every piece of bedding that carried their scent and threw it in the trash. Then I used scent-blocking herbs and went to sleep.
The next morning, Alexander stormed up to me. “What was that about? I spent hours trying to get into our bedroom! You woke the whole house!”
“Wasn’t that thoughtful of me? Giving you more alone time with Victoria. You should thank me.”
“Are you sick in the head? Why would I spend the night with Victoria? You’re my mate!”
“Oh, now you remember I’m your mate? I thought Victoria’s return meant I’d be replaced entirely.”
Victoria played peacemaker. “Please don’t fight. This trip should be happy. Don’t let me ruin it – I’d feel terrible.”
“See how understanding Victoria is? Unlike your petty jealousy!” Alexander growled.
Sarah joined in. “Scarlett, your behavior is getting worse. Denying your mate access to your bedroom! Don’t let it happen again – we’ll overlook it this once.”
James snarled. “You’ve spoiled her! A warrior’s mate should know her place – no female dares deny her mate entry! Such defiance deserves punishment. That would teach her respect!”
Emma smirked. “Sister, with your jealousy and temper, my brother might reject you as his mate.”
The same sister I’d raised and spoiled for five years.
Victoria watched me with triumph in her eyes, already imagining herself in my place.
Alexander dragged the luggage to me. “Hurry up, we need to leave for the territory crossing point or we’ll be late.”
“Scarlett, you carry all our bags,” Sarah said. “The protected convoy has strict limits on what we can bring. You can carry everything since you’re going alone.”
I looked at the eight massive designer suitcases, each weighing over fifty pounds, and smiled. “Of course. You all go ahead. I’ll be right behind you.”
