The wolves, except for Brady, were all in their animal form, making it very easy to spot the other vampires and the witch who had arrived to help us. She was busy circling the area, mumbling something, a spell perhaps, and laying out large rock crystals. “Fallon’s out safely,” I said. Nicholas stared intently at the bonfire. I wondered if he was contemplating the choice he’d made to sacrifice himself. “You ready for this?” I asked cautiously. He took a deep, slow breath. “To avenge my mate, yes.” I silently prayed that we might be able to avoid the whole sacrifice thing. I’d never seen him like this. He didn’t look up, but I caught the glint of tears in his eyes. I looked away. I could never stand to see a man cry. To see Nicholas, Mr. Tough Guy, crying would make me break down too. I just couldn’t do it. Now was not the time for tears. I promised myself that the next day, when all was said and done, I would let myself cry until I had no tears left. But for now, I had to put on a brave face.
