A spasm doubled her over, and she released her hold on him. Ruby cried out, and Sol picked her up. “Oh, damn it, Isser, please. I can’t. Not yet. Go into the emergency supplies. Hurry.” Isser jumped up and ran to the storage cupboard of emergency supplies. “Grab the candle and bottle of wine,” Sol shouted. “What the fuck? Why are these here?” Isser asked suspiciously. “It was Jewel’s idea. She said it never hurts to be prepared. There is a bottle of wine and a package of candles in both shuttles. I think she’s been hoping for another female. There’s no time to argue. Bring them here.” Isser obeyed the other wolf. He felt hollow, wooden. He’d never considered this could really happen, but here he was getting ready for the most important duty of his life. “Yes!” The admission burst from him before he really thought about the words. “I accept the role of guardian. I will keep your mate in my heart as my mate and your children as my children.” “Good, now get your furry ass over here and make sure you have matches too.”
