Darkyn's Mate

"I'm glad you're okay," Fate sounded sincere. "Now I know you'll remain that way."

"You said something similar two days ago, before I became the mate of the Dark One."

"I mean it this time." He chuckled. "I'm okay with you hating me, now that I know you'll be okay. One last tip. Three doors down on your left."

Deidre almost cringed at the thought of leaving the chamber after her first venture out that landed her not only in trouble but also in Darkyn's bed. She twisted her hair into a bun and felt the warm energy of Fate fade with him.

When she was done, she studied her reflection. The sultriness was present, along with the calm steadiness of her blue gaze. She felt centered and refreshed this morning, the newfound hunger for the blood of her mate sated for now. She was surprised to find the idea of tasting him didn't repulse her, as if the intimate bond with him was natural.

She should be disgusted. Deidre shook her head in frustration and left her room. She lingered outside her door, waiting for someone to attack her. When no one did, she paced three doors down and paused.

Fate had a way of setting her up. She wasn't so sure she wanted to know what was behind that door.

She was also tired of being afraid.

Deidre knocked. A moment later, the door opened, and she gasped. The Immortal who posed as her only friend and surgeon for years - who also nearly killed her - stood before her. His dark skin was offset by brilliant turquoise eyes, his noble carriage and cold features giving him the appearance of an ancient prince.

"Wynn!"

He raised an eyebrow in the only sign of surprise. His eyes settled on the fangs resting on her lower lips. Self-conscious, she felt her face grow warm and crossed her arms. She pressed her lip together to hide her fangs.

"He lost no time in turning you," Wynn said. "Come in." He opened the door wider to display a chamber the same size as hers but outfitted as if for a hospital.

Deidre entered uncertainly. A girl in her mid-teens lay still on the hospital bed central to the room. Half her face was disfigured.

"Double-bound? I didn't even know it was possible." Wynn was unable to hide his surprise this time.

Unwilling to admit to the bonds let alone talk about them, Deidre focused on the girl.

"Is this …"

"His daughter."

Deidre wasn't certain what to think at the sight of the girl on the bed. She drew nearer, eyes sweeping over the medical equipment in the room. The girl appeared to be sleeping, her breathing deep and steady.