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

by Tessa Hale

We’d do whatever it took to get Wren back. And then we’d return every ounce of pain the Death Walkers had inflicted on her. I just hoped like hell we weren’t too late.

Puck. Some part of me recognized those eyes. Pain and relief surged through me in equal measure. Then, there was a flash of someone else in the dark. Kingston. Pale-blue eyes and dark hair.

“No,” I whispered as I faded. “It’s you touching me. You hate me. It hurts.” And then I was gone.

“Not his mate, my ass,” Hera muttered. I clamped my mouth shut and yanked my arm out of Kingston’s grasp, not saying a word. But I felt the healer’s judgment.

was going to help Brix rid the world of every single Death Walker. And I would make their ends a living

hell. They would feel every ounce of pain Wren had. And I would relish every second of it.

“It’s his way of telling you he’s sorry,” Puck said softly. “Nothing like heads in a bonfire,” I muttered. Puck’s lips twitched. “Just be glad he didn’t dump them on your bed or something.”

“I know I don’t deserve your forgiveness, but I will spend the rest of my life making sure you’re safe.” “Brix—” “My only purpose. That and making sure you’re happy.”

“I’m yours,” I rasped. “Whatever you need. I’m yours.” Something shifted in her gaze. I wasn’t sure what Wren might do. She didn’t run. She didn’t grab my face for another kiss. She wrapped herself around me, her face burrowing into my neck as she breathed deeply. “I’m yours, too.” Those were the sweetest words I’d ever heard.

“You sound like Princess.”

“The hell I do.”

“Wren. Little Warrior. Mate. I swear my devotion to you and only you. Where you lead, I will follow. What you need, I will provide. My life is yours to do with as you will.”

“The whole world would hunt you. Not just the wolves. Not only the supernaturals. Everyone.”

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.

I see you, Little Warrior. Blue eyes that melt from one shade to the next. Eyes that take in everything around you. That see more than anyone else. Eyes that make everyone feel seen, too. This bracelet has an enchantment that should help with your headaches. I love you. – King

“You think going to an MMA fight when you have a bunch of heat on you is a good idea?” Ender snarled. “Oh, no, you don’t, Mr. Pussy Palace,” I snapped. Juan leaned over to Locke. “Did she just say pussy palace?” “I haven’t fought this hard to stay alive to not truly live. I am going to that fight. Whether you come with me is your choice.” Ender glared at me. “Oh, I’m going with you. And I’m going to tear out the eyes of anyone who even looks at you twice.” Juan winced. “Note to self, wear shades to the fight.”

Gods, she was the kind of beauty I’d never seen before.

“That’s a good girl. So obedient.”

Wren released Locke and me, then crossed to the woman to give her a high five. “I highly recommend swirlying your enemies and finding five loves of your life.” The stranger’s jaw dropped. “Five?” Wren nodded, smiling wide. “Five is the perfect number.” “Shit,” she mumbled. “I gotta start collecting.” “Good luck,” Wren called, moving toward the door. Locke and I hurried to follow, grinning like the lovesick fools we were.