Eclipsed Empire (The Wolves of Crescent Creek, #2)

by Tessa Hale

Silver sparked in Kingston’s gaze. “And then what? His beta would’ve taken over and continued it all. It would’ve done nothing but extinguish your light. A light this world needs. A light this pack needs.” “And what about you? What do you need?” His hand lifted, his fingers brushing away my fallen tears. “You, Wren. My little warrior. What I’ve always needed was you.” Fresh tears began to fall, spilling down my cheeks and onto King’s fingers. “I’m scared you’ll always see him when you look at me.” Kingston’s expression gentled as he gazed up at me. “I see you. Your fierceness. Your gentle care. The way you give to those around you, even when they don’t deserve it. I see everything about you. And one day, you’ll see that, too. But I’m not in a rush.” He stood then, pushing his chair back and towering over me before bending, his lips hovering for a moment before pressing gently to my forehead. Suddenly, he was gone. But the feeling of him wasn’t. The place where King had kissed me still burned. It was a scalding brand—a promise of forever.