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his clan leaders standing where jaguars had been. They looked at him expectantly.
    The soft fabric of a cape descended on his shoulders and he turned. Addison had removed hers, draping it over him. He wanted nothing more than to leave this place, take her home, and begin whatever life they were to have together.
    But he was now the leader, not just of his clan, but of all the clans. There were things he needed to set right. And he needed to do that now.
    He stepped past Addison and climbed onto the platform, the leaders and Xavier’s guards gathered below.
    “You have witnessed what happened. I accepted Xavier’s challenge and we fought, as he proclaimed. We fought honorably, and he is dead. I am now your leader.”
    Griffin looked over the men. The clan leaders loyal to him bowed their heads. A few did not and he met each of their eyes. A few looked confused, but several held his gaze, challenge written on their faces. There would be trouble from them, but he would deal with them shortly.
    “You are free to return to your clans. Let your people know that I am now your leader and will do right by you. Know that things will not be the same as they were under Xavier’s rule. There will be no more raids on the villages, there will be no more tests of bravery. And there will be no more mating rituals. You are free to find your own mates, and make your own choices.”
    There were murmurs among the leaders, voices agreeing with him, a few smiles among the men. For now, at least, it seemed things might stay peaceful.
    “Leave. Go home. Rest. We will gather again soon.”
    The men turned to leave. He climbed off the platform. Addison was waiting and he pulled her into a tight embrace.
    “Can we leave now? You’re injured.” She looked up at him, concern and exhaustion shadowing her eyes.
    “One more thing and then, yes, we can leave.”
    He caught Ramos’s eye, motioning the man to join him.
    “Thank you for your help, Ramos. Without you, none of this would have been possible.”
    “It was the right thing to do.” He bowed. “I am at your command.”
    “Thank you. And since Kade is dead, his clan will become part of yours.”
    Ramos smiled, and then bowed his head again, deeper this time. “It is an honor. I will serve both clans, and you, well.”
    “And one final matter,” Griffin replied, his lips drawn into a grin. “Daphne is your life mate. You may take her with you.”
    Ramos looked up, eyes widened and then his smile grew. “Thank you, Griffin. You have made me very happy.”
    From the jungle came a feminine squeal and the foliage parted. Daphne ran into the clearing, throwing herself at Ramos. He caught her, swung her into his arms, and she turned her face up to his. He crushed her against him, and the kiss they shared was so passionate, so intimate, Griffin turned away.
    Addison turned to him. “Can we go now?”
    “Yes, we certainly can.”
    He held out his hand and she took it. The pain in his body raged, but for the first time in days he felt hopeful. And he wanted to start his new life with Addison as soon as possible.

Chapter Seven
     
    Griffin’s limp grew more pronounced the further they walked. Addison was more worried about the blood running down his leg. It seemed to come from the wounds in his stomach. But he’d pulled his cape close and she hadn’t gotten a good look at any of his injuries.
    “How far to your home?” She could hear the concern in her voice and it was clear Griffin heard it as well. He glanced down at her, the imperious expression she was used to seeing on his face melting away.
    “Half the morning, maybe less.”
    “That far!” Half the morning meant nothing to her, but it seemed like an impossible amount of distance to cover, especially for an injured man.
    “It’s not that far. It’s closer than you think.”
    He was wincing with each step, his stride uneven. “But you’re badly injured, losing blood. We should…”
    “I am fine, Addison. Shifters heal