Aldric did not return to his bed that night, meaning the first time they were supposed to sleep together as mates never happened. Just as he had commanded, her things were moved into his place. However, the new environment unsettled Islinda. Perhaps if he had been there, her sleep would have been better.
She tossed and turned all night until sleep finally claimed her in the early morning. It came as a huge surprise when she woke up and found someone's arms wrapped around her. Her heart leapt with joy. She turned to ask Aldric why he'd had a sudden change of heart, but the joy quickly faded. It wasn't Aldric.
"That's quite disappointing. I thought you'd be more delighted to see me," Maxi said, stretching out, her dark hair spilling around the pillow like a waterfall.
