Unless she ran to someone who could override his mark.
The thought made his blood run cold.
His mark on Dakota had been weak for years, neglected and fading because maintaining a bond he couldn't publicly acknowledge had been impossible.
But it was still there, still claimed her as his even if no one knew it.
Unless someone stronger had decided to claim her instead.
The possibility made his wolf snarl with territorial aggression he had no right to feel, not when he'd chosen Maya, not when he was engaged to Dakota's sister, not when he'd abandoned his first mate for political convenience.
"Try to sleep," Ethan murmured against Maya's hair, even though he knew he wouldn't be able to sleep himself.
"I've got you. You're safe."
Maya nodded, her breathing gradually evening out as exhaustion finally claimed her, the emotional toll of the night dragging her into restless sleep.
