Rider's arms. It was a place I had longed for, even when I knew I had to forget them. It was warm, safe. An emotion I couldn't quite place was climbing up my throat as I was crushed into his embrace. I could feel the familiar beating of his heart, the soothing rhythm of each breath. I couldn't hold back my tears as he held me. Whenever I was with him, I felt like I could be weak for a moment, that he would protect me. I pulled away slightly, to look at my mate. He seemed hesitant to pull away even an inch, but his tired, grey eyes met mine once again.
It was shocking to see Rider like this. Of course, he was still beautiful beyond belief, but he looked exhausted. He had lost weight. His muscular, bulky figure was leaner now, his face more haggard. He had deep, dark bags under his eyes, a
