“One of you, two of them. Love's a bitch.”

“I didn't realize I needed to point out that if we are attacked by a fire-breathing bitch, you can change forms.”

“This is where you belong, Calla.” He pulled me closer, tilting my chin up. “Be with me. Tell me it’s what you want.”I couldn’t tear my eyes from his. “What I want?”“Yes. Anything, everything you need, I’ll give you. Always. I promise. Just tell me one thing.”“What?”“That you want this, us.” His voice dropped so low I could barely hear him. “That someday you’ll love me.”My hands began to tremble where they rested around his neck. “Ren, you know we’re going to be together. We’ve both known that for a long time.”He gave me a hard look. “That’s not what I’m talking about.”“Why are you asking me this?” I tried to pull back, but he held me against him.The glimmer of a smile appeared on his lips. “Why not?”My temper flared. “Are you trying to say that you love me?”I meant it as a challenge rather than a serious question, but his eyes seemed to catch fire.“What do you think?” He touched his lips to mine, softly at first, gradually building pressure, parting them.”

“Why couldn't I have puppy love? I only seem to have "I can't decide if I want to rip your throat out or kiss you" love. Ugh.”

“The first thing Connor said when I saw him after he'd been at the outpost for a few months was, 'I see you got breasts, congratulations. I hope you know how to use them.”

“Wait.” Shay clasped my arm, turning me toward him. “Calla, you know, right?”“Know what?” I asked, caught in the mystery of his eyes.“That I love you too.”

“I need my warriors whole. You made each other bleed.” I ignored Ren's bewildered expression. “Now undo the damage.”“You've got to be kidding me.” Shay grimaced.“I can't begin to tell you how much I'm not kidding.” I stepped back, folding my arms over my chest. “Until I choose a mate, I'm the only alpha here; I've made it clear that I'm not making a choice right now. You two answer to me. Prove your loyalty. Heal each other.”