Vincent.
The moment my eyes cracked open, a cold dread seized my chest—Anabel was nowhere in sight. The space beside me on the mattress was empty and cold, and instant panic flared violently through my veins.
Why wasn't she in my bed?
Wasn't that the right thing expected of her?
Where exactly could she have gone?
She was my mate. By every law of nature and instinct, she was supposed to be wrapped around me, clinging to my side all day long without thinking of moving.
How could she possibly have left without me knowing?
How could she walk away from my side?
I couldn't even begin to articulate the chaotic tangle of emotions flooding my head, but deep down, my wolf was clawing at my consciousness, absolutely restless and demanding her presence.
"Alaric!" I bellowed, my voice echoing off the walls of the room.
Almost instantaneously, the door flew open and he barged into the chamber, dropping his eyes with his head slightly bowed in respect.
