Kade stared at the unconscious form of Lyra on his bed, her skin flushed with fever, her breathing rapid and shallow. The heat scent poured from her in waves, intoxicating and maddening. Acheron clawed at his insides, demanding that he claim what was his by right, but Kade forced himself to step back, to maintain the last shreds of his control. He could not dishonor himself or her by taking advantage of her vulnerable state, no matter how loudly his wolf howled in protest.
A sharp knock on the chamber door broke his trance. He inhaled deeply, fighting for composure before calling, "Enter."
Maggie stepped in, carrying a basket of herbs and cloths. Her eyes avoided the bed where Lyra lay writhing slightly, her body instinctively seeking relief from the heat consuming her.
"Dismiss the guards," Kade ordered, his voice strained. "Their presence will only make this worse."
"But Alpha, your protection—"
