Chapter 249

"The ritual has not been completed. She has not slept with him. We would know," Bryant said stubbornly, and began to pace restlessly. "There are many of us without a woman, and yet my lord, you allow this risk."

"There is only one lifemate. She obviously belonged with Dimitri. Besides, I have plans and I won't let you ruin them, Bryant."

"Are you sure about this, my lord?" Bryant began.

A low snarl stopped him. "I see no reason for you to question my judgment in this matter, Bryant. I have had more than one sire, and I have never let fraternity stand in the way of what is just or right." Ellon smirked, "For now... I need Dimitri's trust and his ally." He paced and added, "We require the woman as leverage."