Fae-ted to the Bear - Harmony Raines Page 0,56

always protect her. There was no way she could let him down.

“I’m going to check in on Ivan.” She pointed toward the kitchen where the smell of breakfast cooking escaped through the door. Her stomach growled as she let go of Caleb’s hand and headed to the kitchen. But there were more important things than food.

“Elise.” Ivan glanced up at her as he plated up some eggs and bacon. “You’re not due in until later.”

“About that...” She clasped her hands together in front of her and bowed her head. “I’m not going to be able to make my shift.”

“Oh.” Ivan placed the pan down on the stovetop and came around the counter to stand in front of her. “You realize that’s going to leave me shorthanded?”

“I do.” She nodded and lifted her head to look him in the eyes. “But Aiden and Caleb are leaving to check on their sister and I need to go with them.”

“You think they can’t take care of themselves?” Ivan mocked. “You do know they are two big bear shifters who can practically read each other’s thoughts. They are a force in themselves.”

“Physically, yes. But this is about their sister. And family can sometimes mean you don’t think straight.” She inhaled deeply. “And there are some monsters you can’t fight with your fists or your paws.”

“You’re going because you think your mate might need your protection.” A smile crept across his face.

“I do.” She shrugged. “I understand if this means I lose my place here.”

Ivan chuckled. “You still don’t know us too well.” He backed away and picked up the pan once more. “Take as much time as you need. I’m happy that you’ll be there for Caleb. He might need you.”

“So, we’re okay?” Her shoulders slumped forward, and she brushed her hand across her eyes.

“We’re okay. More than if you’d chosen to stay behind,” he admitted. “Your mate is more important than anything in the world...or so I’m told. You are supposed to be by his side. And seeing that you know that makes me happy.”

“I do belong by his side,” she agreed. “And finding Caleb has complicated my plans.”

“I can only imagine,” Ivan looked toward her. “Are you telling me you are quitting anyway?”

“Oh, no.” She waved her hands at him, as if trying to push that thought away. “I am totally committed to my career. Well, not totally. I am going to work hard to prove myself to you and learn everything you have to teach me. But I also want to balance it with my life with Caleb. I guess my priorities have shifted a little.”

“Listen, Elise.” Ivan glanced toward the restaurant. She was wasting his time when he was so busy, but he was patient with her, and she warmed to the dragon shifter. “You’re my brother’s mate. And that means I am willing to give you some leeway here that I wouldn’t give anyone else.”

“I understand. And I promise not to take advantage of that.”

Ivan chuckled. “I thought you would object.”

“I’d be stupid to object. I know how Caleb feels about his family. And the way he speaks about you all makes me believe that you all feel the same way about each other. So, since you want each other to be happy, it’s easy to see that you’ll be more...accommodating to me because I am your brother’s mate.”

Ivan pointed at her. “It’s a good thing you have his back.”

“Just like he has mine.” She stepped forward and kissed Ivan on the cheek before backing out of the kitchen. “Thanks, Ivan. I won’t forget this.”

“Just remember you still owe me a dish of wonderful food,” he called after her as she left the kitchen.

“I won’t.” She entered the reception area and looked around, Caleb and Aiden were gone.

“Through there and down the corridor.” Jeremy looked up from the reception desk and aimed her in the right direction.

“Thanks.” She hurried down the corridor, suddenly aware that she smelled of woodsmoke and her hair was a mess. When they left the forest, she’d planned on going straight home and showering. Elise sniffed her clothes. She’d definitely have to go change before they left.

When she reached the door leading to Valerie’s apartment, she raised her hand, ready to knock.

“Elise.” Flora opened the door. “Are you coming, too?”

“Yes, I just had to go tell Ivan. I was worried I might lose my job here but he’s okay with it.” She pressed her lips together as she looked over Flora’s shoulder. “Is there any