Chapter 25

Damian

"I don't have to agree with her hatred, but as her mate, whatever she feels toward another is exactly how I feel about them." ~ Damian

The more time we spend in Emjay's presence, the more in tune my bull and I grow toward our mate. It's a connection that deepens with each passing day, and a bond that strengthens with every shared moment. Something about Circe's call stirred deep emotions inside of Emjay, and it affected her deeply, even if the reasons aren't immediately apparent to my understanding.

We left the tent when Lena woke, and Jayce went back to Shay, who was helping the others organize and set up the new provisions. Emjay's daughters have been right there amongst the women from day one. Answering questions about the outside world and their mates. Neither has spent any time with Emjay, which I know adds to the ache inside her heart. She hasn't approached them either. Her reasons are a fear of rejection and an uncertainty about how to proceed.

The camp buzzes with activity, everyone busy with their tasks, yet my mind focuses on Emjay's reaction.

"Emjay, may I ask why that call upset you? I ask because you barely knew Circe," I ask cautiously, not wanting to upset her further but longing to understand. To learn what makes her the person she is.

She turns to me; her gaze searching mine for a moment. "She's not one of the heifers who broke your heart, is she?"

I stuff my hands in my pockets. The memory is still painful. "She delivered the letter her sister sent, informing me of her nuptials with a human. I've neither seen nor heard from either woman since they dumped me."

It can't be mere jealousy that upset her. There is something more, something deeper.

Emjay huffs. "After everything that's happened to me, I don't forgive easily. I hold grudges. I'd gone for a walk around the park the night of the ceremony, and I witnessed her approach Jayce in her birthday suit. She tried to make it look like he wasn't faithful to my Shay. While Shay didn't believe the scene for one minute, and beat the hell out of Circe, it got to me. It reminded me of all that I've missed. Shay's so strong and confident. And it has nothing to do with me."

I step closer, wanting her to feel my support. "It has everything to do with you. That strength is inside of you too. It took strength to give her up and let strangers raise her. It took strength to return to her, not knowing how she'd react. It even took strength to open up to me just now. Both of your daughters are a piece of you. Nature versus nurture doesn't matter. They both played a part in who your daughters are, and just because you didn't nurture them doesn't mean you still can't. Nor does it make your sacrifice meaningless."

Emjay looks at me, tears welling up in her eyes. "Do you really believe that?"

I nod, reaching out and gently taking her hand. "Absolutely. You're stronger than you know, and you've shown it in so many ways. Your past doesn't define you. It has shaped you into the incredible person you are today. And that strength, that resilience, it's in Shay too. She gets it from you."

She squeezes my hand. A small smile forms on her lips. "Thank you. I needed to hear that."

We stand there for a moment with the weight of our conversation settling around us. Our vision roams over the group of men and women working in harmony—a community woven together by mutual respect and shared purpose.

The women move gracefully. Many of them wear a mask of armor. Their hearts are guarded yet open, and their spirits strong. They work side by side with the men who tend to the various tasks needed.

Children huddle together, their laughter and playful chatter filling the air. With an infectious enthusiasm, Frank teaches some of the older children how to kick a soccer ball. Their joy is a reminder of innocence and optimism, a distinct contrast to the adult responsibilities surrounding them.

Nearby, men carry buckets of water toward a tent where the bathtub awaits. The women eagerly anticipate their turn, excited to wash away a lifetime of grime with the soaps and other body care products their mates brought. Each woman looks forward to putting on clean clothes before the night ends.

A few of the women try helping carry water, but Michail gently put his foot down. "It is time you learned how precious and valuable you are by allowing us to serve you," he insists, his tone firm yet kind. The women smile, appreciating the gesture and the care behind his words.

Niki pulls a pink dress from a bag, holds it up to her body and twirls, giggling with delight. Her happiness is contagious and spreads among those around her.

Kore sits nearby, brushing Flora's fresh, clean hair, the rhythmic strokes of the brush a soothing counterpoint to the day's activities.

Sara stands with her hands on her hips, watching Markos stir the food, cooking over the fire. From this angle, it appears she's telling him he's doing it wrong. Her animated gestures and his amused expression create a lively exchange. Others close by laugh at the pair.

The sun dips below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the camp, and everyone settles around the fire for the evening meal. The smell of food mingles with the cool evening air, and the crackle of the fire provides a comforting background. One that's needed for what I have to say.

I know it's time to share what Willow has told me. The ones who have already left to start their lives will never learn what Willow saw about their history. However, I think as many as possible should know.

The message burdens my mind, and I pray it receives the gravity it deserves.

I hold my hand out for Emjay to escort her to dinner. She accepts the offer. Together, we walk toward a group full of new desires despite the levels of trauma gnawing at the surface.