Chapter 5

For the first little while Mitch sat quietly watching his mate. He'd hold her hand or brush the hair off her face with the back of his hand. Touch is what he needed, it kept him calm, steadied his nerves and gave his body a chance to learn at least a little of hers.

As the fever increased, Mitch looked to Tempest unsure of what to do, how to help his mate. "Take the bowl Trae brought up and part fill it with tepid water, I'll wipe her face, arms and hands down and maybe it will help a little."

Tempest wasn't sure at all it if would help, but it would give them both something to do and it couldn't hurt. She monitored Miriam and in the end let Mitch sponge her down as best he could. Trae and Murray came in at intervals with food and drinks to help keep them going, but when Wade made his way into the room in the early hours of the morning, he pulled rank and told Tempest to get some rest.

Tempest was too tired to argue, she tugged his shirt to indicate she wanted him to follow her. "Miriam's holding her own for now, she's strong and she's going to need that strength to get through this." She sighed, "I wouldn't get too close to the bed if I were you. Mitch is wound tight and... to be honest I think he's only okay with me tending her because I'm female."

"I'll keep that in mind, now get some rest. I'll wake you in a few hours and maybe he'll put his head down while you watch over Miriam."

"Thank you Mr Benning. I'm a light sleeper, so it won't take much to wake me." Tempest bedded down on the small couch in the sitting room. Exhaustion taking her consciousness almost before her head touched the cushion.

Wade decided not to stay in the bedroom, he wandered in and out checking on both Mitch and Miriam. He was more than surprised that they were mates and couldn't help but wonder if they would have crossed paths if she hadn't have been attacked. In the end he decided not to dwell on it, they'd found each other and although Miriam had no idea what was happening or how much her world would be turned upside down, he was hopeful that they would make a go of it.

As promised Wade woke Tempest a few hours later and she surprised him by not going straight into the bedroom, but in search of Trae. She saw him walking towards her and ran towards the stairs to speak with him. "Trae, I need a few things if that's okay?"

"Sure Doc, whatever you need."

She smiled softly, "Could I have a pillow and a couple of blankets, I want to see if I can convince Mitch to put his head down for a bit. I know they're mates, but Miriam doesn't know him yet so I don't think it would be a good idea to let him lay on the bed with her."

"He won't want to leave her either," began Trae, "if you can convince him to bed down on the floor beside the bed it might just work." He looked at her with concern, "You want me to sit with you for a while?"

"Mr Benning's with us at the moment, how about you drop in for a while when he leaves? Have you gotten any sleep yet?"

Trae laughed, "To be honest Doc, sleep is the last thing on my mind. This is the first transition we've had into the Pack in a good many years. I just hope..." he couldn't finish, and Tempest gave his arm a squeeze in comfort. "I'll go get what you need."

Trae returned several minutes later with a pillow and blankets. She smiled gratefully taking them from him then entered the bedroom. "Mitch," she said softly knowing he'd hear. "Mitch I need you to take a break."

He growled, but she continued knowing this was needed. "You don't have to leave the room, in fact I'd prefer it if you don't. You'll be able to recognise any change in Miriam, even while you're resting you'll sense it. I need your help and so does your mate," she took in a slow breath, "but you need rest to be able to do that."

Mitch turned to her, the first time he'd taken his eyes of Miriam since he'd sat beside her. He didn't speak, he gave Tempest a nod, got to his feet and seeing what she was holding, moved the chair out of the way.

Tempest handed the pillow and blankets to him then stepped back to wait. She smiled when Mitch kicked off his boots and made a makeshift bed on the floor beside his mate. She stood in the doorway for several minutes making sure he was settled, not surprised at all to hear Wade move beside her.

"You did good Tempest, he's exhausted" Wade nodded towards Mitch. "If you know anything about Were's, you'll know he isn't about to leave his mate in the care of anyone else. That he's okay with you tending her speaks volumes in regards to his trust in you?"

Tempest turned to Wade, surprise on her face, "I haven't had time to consider that, but you're right." She smiled softly, "I'll watch over both of the Mr Benning. As of now they are both my patients."

Wade gave her shoulder a slight squeeze and stepped back into the sitting room. "I'll leave you to it Dr T." and left her alone with her patients, closing the door quietly behind him.

The next two days moved forward in something of a blur for Tempest. She did what was needed, tended Miriam, making sure she was comfortable and helping Mitch give her tiny sips of water to prevent her dehydrating.

Mitch was so gentle with Miriam, concerned but determined she'd make it through, because he couldn't see past her not waking up. Were's that found their true mate, mated for life. There would be no other for him if she were to pass on.

Sadly many who lose their true mate turn Rogue needing to be hunted down and destroyed by Pack Enforcers. Tempest was more than determined that that would not be the outcome here. She was a doctor, a surgeon with a great deal of knowledge, knowledge that was scientific and learned by Pack Healers.

As she sat on the side of the bed wiping over Miriam's face, Tempest had to push the thought of defeat away. With all her knowledge, all her experience there was not a damned thing she could do to save this woman. Only time would tell, she offered up a silent pray to whoever might be listening, resigning herself to the fact that she had no choice but to wait.

The usual time for a person to work through a transition was two to three days. This was the third day. Miriam's temperature was peeking, Mitch was pacing the room and both Wade and Trae were in the sitting room awaiting news.

"Mitch!" Tempest called out, "I need more water."

Mitch came to a stop before taking the bowl from Tempest and heading to the bathroom to get fresh water. He'd been doing this throughout the night, was frustrated that it was all he could do to help his little mate and wanted more than anything else to beat the shit out of the Rogue who'd done this to Miriam.

Sometime in the early hours of the morning Tempest released a sigh of relief. Mitch was beside her in an instant, Wade and Trae approaching the doorway hoping it was good news. "The fever's broken," she said with and exhausted smile. "She's going to make it."

Mitch crouched down to get a closer look at his mate, brushed several strands of hair off her face and stopped breathing as her eyes opened. She looked confused and tired, but not afraid. Lifting a hand Miriam touched it to Mitch's cheek. "I... I umm, I know you. I'm not sure how, but I know you."

Mitch's hand covered hers and he breathed her in, her scent was a mix of sugar and spice - sugar with a hint of cinnamon. He smiled, "rest little one, we can take about how you know me soon enough." Her eyes drifted closed and he smiled with relief. Placing her hand back under the covers, he waited until he was certain his mate was sleeping then got to his feet. Looking around the room as if for the first time he rested his eyes on Tempest. "How long do you think she'll be out?"

"A good few hours, which will give you more than enough time to clean up and get something to eat."

Mitch looked down at himself, realised he was still wearing the same clothes he'd had on when he carried Miriam into the room. "Good idea, and Doc, thank you. I don't know what I'd have..." he sighed, "Thank you."

Tempest grinned, wrapped her arms around him and hugged him close. "You are most welcome my friend. Go see to your needs, I'll sit with her until you return."

~~~~~~~~~~~~

She watched over Miriam and when she woke an hour later Tempest allied her fears and confusion. "Hi," she smiled, "I'm Dr Kincaid, please call me Tempest. How about I help you into the bathroom so you can freshen up, then we'll see about food before we talk." She waited hoping Miriam would agree, thankfully she did.

Once showered and dressed in a tee-shirt and track pants supplied by the Pack, Miriam sat on the edge of the bed, unsure if she was ready to venture any further. Tempest realised her nervousness sat beside her, placing an arm around her in comfort.

"I know you're confused, mayhap a little afraid, but you're in a safe place. A friend of mine named Trae, just brought up a tray for us both. How about we eat first, then you can ask questions."

She looked at Miriam out of the corner of her eye, "There are a few people who'll want to meet you as well. Do you remember when you first woke up?" she nodded, blushing slightly and Tempest leaned into her in support. "His name is Mitch, he especially wants to meet you. But I promise if it's too much, if you feel too overwhelmed I'll make them leave."

Miriam looked around putting her hands over her ears, "Everything is too loud, I can't think."

Tempest got on her knees in front of her placing her hands over hers. "Look at me Miriam," when she did Tempest smiled encouragingly. "Good girl, now," she said pulling Miriam's hand away from her ears, "Close your eyes and listen to me... only me. I know the sounds are too loud, too much so here's what I need you to do. Clear your mind of other thoughts, concentrate only on what you can hear.

Miriam took a deep breath, "Okay, I'll try."

When Tempest could see she was with her, she gave her hands a squeeze, "You're doing great. Now I want you to pretend your mind is a radio or in your case a stereo system."

Miriam's face scrunched up but she did as asked. "Now what do I do?"

"I want you to find the volume and turn it down, just a little okay?"

Miriam smiled, "It worked, but it's still too loud."

"Then turn it down a little more. Keep doing it a little at a time until you're at a comfortable level." Tempest watched Miriam's expression until it relaxed, then got to her feet pulling her along with her.

"Okay, food then talk." Miriam nodded and let Tempest lead her to the sitting room where their food was laid out on the table by the window. Sausage, bacon and eggs with hash browns, tomato and mushrooms. Toast, coffee and juice on the side. Miriam's stomach grumbled as did Tempests. Without further conversation they took their seats and tucked in.

They were just finishing off their coffee when there was a knock at the door. Miriam tensed bringing Tempest to her feet. She knew who it was but asked anyway. "Who is it?"

"Hey Doc, its Murray. I won't come in but if you're done with breakfast I'll clear everything away for you."

"Give me a minute." She stacked everything onto the tray and carried it to the door. "Please step back and I'll bring it out to you?"

"No problem Doc." Was his reply as he opened the door to make it easy for her then took a few steps back into the hallway.

Tempest smiled at Murray, "Thank you for the food, it was delicious and most appreciated," she indicated the room with a nod of her head letting him know she wasn't the only one who enjoyed his food.

That put a huge grin on Murray's face, "Any time Doc, any time." He took the tray and moved towards the stairs leaving Tempest to return to the new Pack member.

She closed the door behind her and flicked the lock. No one would be coming in without Miriam's agreement. "How are you feeling now?" she asked.

"Confused, a little lost, afraid, but not of you." She frowned. "What happens now? I mean I don't know you, I don't know where I am or even how I'm supposed to be feeling." Tears pricked her eyes and Tempest sat next to her taking her hand in her own.

Tempest wanted to explain what had happened to Miriam and why. She wanted to tell her that her life wasn't over, that yes, it had changed dramatically, but she'd been given a gift, her body now so enhanced she'd be capable of living a great deal longer than her human body would have. It wasn't her place to give Miriam an explanation, she was not part of this Pack, so held her tongue. It was up to Mitch or Wade to do so.

A moment later there was another knock on the door. Mitch turned the doorknob, becoming angry that it was locked, that someone had tried to keep him from his mate. "Doc! It's Mitch open the door."

Miriam ran back to the bedroom leaving the door open enough so she could peek through to see what was happening. She was shaking unsure what was going to happen, what to do or who she could trust.

"Mitch calm down. I locked the door so Miriam would feel safe, not to keep you out. She's awake, but confused and a little scared." She opened the door, stood in the middle of the doorway and whispered, "She has no idea what's happened to her, where she is or who we are so be gentle. Don't make this any harder for her to deal with."

His anger immediately dissipated. "Stay close Doc, she'll probably to feel more comfortable if you're with her." He looked over her shoulder, spotted Miriam peeking through the bedroom door and relaxed. She really was up and moving about.

Tempest moved aside so he could enter, this time leaving the door open so Miriam wouldn't feel closed in. She followed him in pointing to one of the chairs around the table, there were four in all. He took a seat and waited to see if Miriam would come out to meet him.

Mitch opened his mouth to speak, but Tempest shook her head, "If you'll excuse me for a moment." Then disappeared into the bedroom.

Miriam looked startled, her lower lip quivering. "It's all right Miriam. Remember when you first woke up and you saw Mitch? You told him you knew him, let him hold your hand until you feel asleep. That's him in the other room. He won't hurt you, if anything he'll do whatever can to protect you. To keep you safe.

"Would you like to meet him again? I promise I'll stay with you and if you want him to leave I'll make sure he does."

Miriam reached for Tempest's hand, letting out a calming breath. He saved me?"

"He helped yes, but there were a few others involved in the actual saving. So?" she nodded and a moment later they both stepped into the sitting room.

Mitch came to his feet a smile on his face, "Miriam," his voice was gently, calming even. "I'm Mitch Davis, it's good to finally meet you." He extended a hand, when she didn't move he pulled it back and took his seat again.

Both women took a seat as well, Miriam making sure Tempest sat between them holding on to Tempest's hand for support. Tempest patted her hand, "Miriam, Mitch helped me take care of you. He brought you here and made sure you were safe and comfortable. He didn't leave your side until he was certain you'd recover."

Miriam glanced at Mitch, a blush spreading across her face, "Hi," she softly replied then looked at him full on as if trying to understand him or what had happened. "I know you?" she blinked several times. "You eat at The Den sometimes." She saw the confusion on his face and explained. "I work at the florist down the street. I've always wanted to try that restaurant, but..." she lowered her head shyly.

"I could take you there, the foods good and the owner is a friend of mine." He turned to Tempest.

"Yes," she agreed. "I had dinner there with Trae, who you'll meet too. Mitch joined us for dessert, the food is excellent."

"I'd like that." She spoke softly, giving Mitch a smile.

Mitch relaxed in his seat, "I think I've seen you too, but... yes! I remember the flowers, you were always half hidden behind flowers." Miriam blushed knowing full well she had always been deliberately hidden behind flowers.

Wade entered the room, giving Mitch a nod of acknowledgement, not surprised in the least when he came to his feet putting himself between his mate and his Alpha, tensed and prepared to protect what was now his.

Wade, knowing he was in protective mode ignored the insult. His gaze zeroing in on Tempest, deliberately avoiding eye contact with Miriam. "How's our guest doing?"

"Good morning Mr Benning. Miriam is doing well, but she has questions as I'm sure you do."

"Mitch," he began. "You are a lucky man, Murray is already planning a celebration, but I've told him to hold off until things are settled." This seemed to take the edge off Mitch and he approached his Alpha who'd offered him his hand.

"I need to speak with Miriam, it would be useful if Trae's here too." He looked at Tempest, "You'll stay?"

"Yes. I understand you need to speak with Miriam, but if I say she's had enough you need to respect that and leave." Her eyes never left Wade's as he considered what she'd said. She wasn't giving him orders, she wasn't telling him what to do, she was being a doctor, Miriam's doctor letting him know the woman was still fragile and he shouldn't push too hard for answers.

"Fair enough, that is if Miriam is up to speaking with us?" he finally looked at Miriam, noting that while nervous she was more curious than anything else.

"I get to ask questions too right?" was her response, becoming visibly relieved when Wade agreed that was the case.

A moment later Trae entered the room a grin on his face. "You look so much better than you did the last time I saw you little lady."

Mitch growled at him, to which Trae laughed and thumped him on the arm in comradery. "Murray said to let you know he's barbequing steak for lunch. I'm thinking he wants to impress your girl."

"Your girl. What do you mean your girl?" asked Miriam.

"Crap! I'm sorry man, I thought she... I mean thought you'd already spoken to her."

Mitch sighed, "You're an idiot Trae, an idiot with a big mouth."

"Yeah, but I'm also your friend and I mean well."

Miriam burst out laughing, as did Wade and Tempest. It didn't take long for Mitch and Trae to join them. Several minutes later she swiped at her eyes, before focusing them on Mitch. "Tell me why it is I'm your girl?"

Wade cleared his throat, "Why don't we all take a seat, there a few questions I need to ask before you and Mitch have that discussion."

Once they were all seated and Trae found a piece of wall to learn on, Wade spoke. "I'm Wade Benning. I'm in charge here. This is Trae," he indicated with a quick look. "I know this is has been difficult Miriam, but what can you tell me about what happened to you?"

Miriam's demeanour immediately changed, her heartbeat racing. "I... I..." she rose as if to flee and found herself in Mitch's arms. She should have pulled away, panicked, but she felt safe. Without even thinking about what she was doing, she put her arms around his waist and nuzzled into his chest.

Mitch couldn't help the smile on his face. "It's okay Miriam, I've got you." He sat down, pulling her onto his lap, rubbing a hand up and down her arm soothingly.

Wade tried again. "We need your help Miriam. You're not the only woman that's been attacked." He rubbed a hand over his face, "unfortunately you're the only one to survive."

Miriam gasped, realising she could just as easily have been one of the women that died. Her eyes teared up and she buried her face into Mitch's chest as if she was trying to hide from everyone there.

"It's okay Miriam, take your time." Mitch all but whispered in her ear. "Think about what happened, go as slow as you need too. Whatever you tell us will help us stop the man who attacked you." Mitch kissed the top of her head and tightened his hold on her.

"It was after work, I was going to go straight home, but... well, there wasn't much to eat at home, I hadn't had time to go shopping so I figured I'd stop by one of the local cafes and grab something. It was such a beautiful night." She looked up at Mitch, "The sky was so clear, you could see heaps of stars. I had something to eat then went for a walk down by the water. I like the way the lights reflect off the water there... you know what I mean?"

He kissed her forehead, wanting to chastise her for putting herself at risk, but didn't say anything sensing she'd clam up if he did. Miriam was his mate, his to love, to protect and that's exactly what he intended doing. "What happened next?"

"I didn't make it to the water." She glanced up at Wade as a tear ran down her cheek. "I got as far as the park area across from the Museum and someone grabbed me." She shuddered, Mitch quickly making soothing sounds near her ear to calm her.

"He was so tall, so strong. I tried to fight him off, but I couldn't. He hurt me." She sobbed, "he enjoyed it, said he was going to make me his, then he would have me whenever he wanted and I wouldn't be able to stop him."

She pulled back from Mitch and looked at everyone, "It was like he believed he had the right to use me however he wanted. The son-of-a-bitch hit me, but I kept trying to push him away. Then, oh god I thought he was trying to kiss me but he... he... oh god he bit me." Her hand went to her throat, "he ripped my throat open, growled when I hit him in the nose then everything went black."

"Did you get a good look at him? Anything you can tell us will help." Wade asked hopefully.

"Like I said he was tall and strong. His hair was matted like umm..."

"Like dreadlocks?" offered Trae.

Miriam nodded, "Yes only it felt like he didn't take care of his hair or any other part of him. He kind of smelled funny, like something sour - or something that's gone bad." She sighed, "It's really hard to put it into words. I remember gaging when he got close to me, it was kinda hard to breathe."

Wade smiled hoping to show her they truly didn't mean her harm, "You're doing Miriam, just fine. Is there anything else you can remember?"

"His face was pock marked like he'd had bad acne when he was a kid. It made him scary looking. And his eyes, one minute they were brown, the next they were the colour of dark amber and so full of hate and anger. I swear if I didn't know better I'd say he was a demon."

Miriam was shaking, Tempest realising she'd had enough. "Mr Benning, I think we're done for now."

"Agreed. If you remember anything else Miriam, please let us know." Wade got to his feet, moved towards the door and was somewhat surprised to be pulled up verbally by his new wolf.

"Hey! You said I could ask questions too. What happened to me after I blacked out? Where am I and what's with you and Trae referring to me like I belong to Mitch? I don't belong to anyone!"

Wade turned, a smile on his face. "I think they are questions better answered by Mitch, Trae and maybe Dr Kincaid. If you're feeling up to it lunch is at one. I'm sure Murray will want to meet you." That said he left them to it.

"Is he always like that?" asked Miriam. "So full of himself I mean."

Trae almost choked trying not to laugh. It was obvious he was going to enjoy watching his friend explain exactly who and what Wade was as well as the fact that she was his mate. Tempest cleared her throat getting everyone's attention. "If you'd rather me explain?"

Miriam not liking the situation, got to her feet moving away from everyone, before turning to face them. "Someone had better tell me what the hell is going on or I'm going to scream!"

"Okay, okay," said Mitch. He sighed still unsure how best to begin.

She stamped her foot, fisted hands going to her hips and growled. The growl scared her, not that it was a growl so much as the fact that it came from her. Panic showed in her eyes and she turned to Tempest. "What happened to me, what did that bastard do to me? Please Tempest tell me what's going on, these two morons don't seem capable of it."

That got their attention, both coming to their feet. Before either could get a word out Tempest shushed them. "Why don't you both go for a walk, give us girls some time to talk and when you do come back," she looked at Miriam, "bring coffee and chocolate in any form." She waited for Miriam's agreement, then folder her arms waiting for them to leave the room.

When they were alone, Tempest took Miriam's hand and tugged her towards the bedroom. She figured the further away from the door the less likely it was that they'd be overheard, especially with Were hearing. She sensed Miriam's nervousness but also the frustration at not being told straight up what was going on.

"Okay," Tempest began. "What I'm going to tell you will seem a little... okay a lot strange, but it's the truth and once you think on it you'll realise it is. You were attacked by a Rogue Were, a Shifter."

"Huh?"

Tempest tried again, "Do you read much?" when Miriam nodded she asked what kind of books.

"I like different kinds of books. I like to read about history, romance and paranormal stuff."

"Paranormal stuff, like what"

"Tempest this isn't helping any?"

"Just play along with me for a few minutes, it'll make sense in the end."

Miriam sighed, "Okay, I like reading about vampires and werewolves. Other kinds of mystical beings, that kind of thing."

"Werewolves - shifters, they are real. Vampires not so much. You said yourself you had your throat ripped out. How do you think you survive? There are no scars on your throat, or any other indication that you were attacked."

"He changed me... bullshit! No! It's not real, it can't be. Can it?" her face was screwed up in confusion.

"Your hearing, remember how it was too loud and I helped you turn it down. You will in time be able to shit into a wolf. I can't tell you when that will happen except that it doesn't depend on the moon being full. I'd say once your body has adjusted to the changes and is ready, it will happen. There's a lot for you to learn, to understand, but most importantly you need to keep what you now are a secret."

Tears streamed down Miriam's face, her legs gave way and she fell to her knees on the carpet wrapping her arms around herself. "Oh my god, when he said I was his, he meant it literally. He owns me!"

"No, he doesn't own you, not in the way you think. Mitch is your mate. You're his to love, to care for. He'll protect you with his life if needs be. But Miriam, as much as you're his, he's yours too. Did you feel the connection to him when you first woke, or when he was holding you earlier?"

Miriam could feel her face blush, "I felt something. It was, it," she sighed, "it felt right him being so close, like umm... it was like I was finally home."

Tempest smiled, "That a really nice way of explaining it. That feeling, the connection you have with Mitch, it'll get stronger the more time you spend together."

"So," Miriam began after taking several deep breaths. "I'm a Werewolf, a shifter. I have a mate and I'll change into a wolf." She remained silent as if contemplating her words before turning her gaze to Tempest, a huge grin on her face, "Cool!"

Tempest was surprised, "You're okay with all this?"

"I've had a crush on Mitch for so long and now he's my mate and I get to go wolf with him." She laughed, "What more can a girl ask for."

Tempest laughed, "When you put it that way," she laughed again. "You'll have questions. Mitch will be able to give you the answers and if he can't there are others in the Pack you can go to."

"What about you? I figured you were one of them... one of us."

"I'm not Pack, I have Friend status, but that's all. Mitch or Trae will be able to give you my number if you want to talk, but once you've settle into the Pack I'm sure you'll have friends that you can go to."

"But I can talk to you right?"

Tempest nodded, "Let's go find our own coffee and chocolate shall we?"

They'd no sooner walked into the dining area than Murray was striding over towards them. Ladies, what can I do for you?"

Tempest looked at him hopefully, "We are in need of comfort food. I don't suppose you'd have a fresh pot of coffee and something with chocolate in it?"

Murray grinned, "I'm sure I can accommodate you both." He glanced from Tempest to Miriam and back again.

"Murray I'd like you to meet Miriam Andrews, she's new to your Pack." She glanced at Miriam and when given a slight nod continued. "She's also Mitch's mate."

Murray offered his hand to Miram, "Welcome to the Pack Miriam, it's nice to meet you. Now why don't you both take a seat and I'll be right back with your comfort food."

They had just finished the coffee and chocolate cake that Murray had brought them when Mitch and Trae showed up. Trae had a grin on his face, Mitch not so much; he actually looked a little nervous.

When Miriam gave him a soft smile he relaxed, "If you're feeling up to it, I'd like to show you around. We... I want you to feel comfortable here. Make it your home." He waited hoping she'd be okay with what he'd said. When she got to her feet offering him her hand his entire face lit up with the relief he felt.

Trae took a seat beside Tempest, "You did good Doc. I can't remember the last time we had someone transition. I've never seen it myself until now."

"Miriam's a strong woman, she's healthy and I believe having her mate was with her played a part in her surviving." She smiled, "they look good together don't they?"

Trae laughed, "Cute. Not exactly how he'd want to be described, but yeah they do. Will you need to keep an eye on her, to make sure she's transitions properly?" he had an uncertain expression on his face.

"There's no need, you can see for yourself she's doing just fine. I'll talk to Murray about her diet for the next week or so, but other than that..." she shrugged.

He breathed a sigh of relief, "So what's your plan for today?"

"It's time for me to go home, get back to work."

"You can't maybe stay a day or two so you can rest up?" he asked with genuine concern.

Tempest reached out, gave his arm a slight squeeze. "I've built a life for myself here Trae. I need to get back to it. Miriam will be fine and I'm sure you have your own healer if she needs anything."

"Your right of cause. I don't know how it is you became involved in our world Dr Kincaid, but I'm grateful you have, I'm certain Mitch is." He sighed, "Wade will want to see you before you leave. He's in his office at the Pack House, I'll take you there if you're read."

Tempest sighed, "In that case, I'm going to need another cup of coffee first."

Trae laughed and getting to his feet headed for the kitchen to find Murray, coffee and hopefully chocolate cake.