Accidental Surrogate for Alpha novel Chapter 11

Sinclair shook his head almost as soon as the words were out of Ella’s mouth. The idea was intriguing, but it would never succeed. “That’s not how it works – we aren’t mates. My kind only gets one, and everyone already knows I found mine many years ago.” Sinclair informed her coolly.

“But… you got divorced.” Ella’s words were tremulous and hesitant, as if she was afraid to bring up the subject. She’d clearly been very busy with her research. He was about to tell her off, when his wolf roared in his head. Enough! Stop this, you know she’s right – it’s better for everyone this way.

Sinclair was taken aback, his wolf never disagreed with him – they’d always been on the same page about everything. The pup is most important, it needs its mother. His wolf continued, besides, she’s not asking you for anything - if she was just a gold-digger like Lydia, she’d be eager to move in with you.

I don’t know. Sinclair thought. It’s worth taking a second look at Ella’s background but –

No buts! His wolf interrupted. Give her what she wants.

Why are you so determined about this? Sinclair demanded, surprised by his inner canine’s insistence.

We can’t hurt Ella. His wolf proclaimed fiercely. She’ll suffer if we take the pup away.

Sinclair had to admit he didn’t want the lovely human to be in pain, but he still didn’t trust her. His wolf on the other hand was absolutely adamant, and all shifters knew better than to question their animal instincts. Intuition didn’t lie – not when it came to the supernatural.

“Fine.” He grumbled. “But only if you help with my campaign. It won’t be easy, there’s more to being a Luna than standing on my arm and looking pretty.”

Ella’s face lit up so brightly Sinclair had to fight his smile. His wolf on the other hand, actually wagged his tail like an excited puppy. What the hell is going on with me? He thought, speaking more to himself than his wolf – who was clearly losing his mind.

“What’s a Luna?” Ella asked curiously, barely able to contain her joy but trying to remain engaged in the conversation.

“It’s an Alpha’s mate.” Sinclair explained, realizing just how much he was going to have to teach her. “And for the record, this little arrangement will only last until I meet a she-wolf who might fill the role for real.”

“But you just told me werewolves only get one mate.” Ella questioned, not understanding.

“We only get one fated mate. Chosen mates are completely different. We can choose as many as we like, but the Goddess only grants us one fated love.” Sinclair informed her. “The bond is different.”

“Different, as in weaker?” Ella clarified.

“No - just different.” Sinclair corrected. “Not all fated mates are a good fit, and some chosen couples are much happier together.”

“So if you find another mate, I won’t be allowed to see the baby anymore?” Ella asked, gnawing on her lower lip.

“We can talk about it if and when it happens.” Sinclair stated after a moment. “But I want to be very clear that this agreement only lasts as long as it works. If we can’t find a way to get along well enough to convince people or if I learn that this is all another one of your tricks–” Ella’s eyes flared with anger, but Sinclair forged on ahead. “The deal is off.”

Though Ella’s cheeks were flushed bright pink, she set her shoulders as if preparing herself to take on a great challenge. “Fine. Have your people draw up the contracts.”

“I will.” Sinclair agreed, “As soon as you pack your bags.”

Ella sent another glower his way, and though his wolf was preoccupied thinking how adorable she was when she was grumpy, Sinclair couldn’t help but take her in hand. He Reached out and caught her chin between his thumb and forefinger, tilting her pretty face up to his. “And Ella – the first rule of being a shifter? The Alpha makes the rules.”

Sinclair watched as his words sunk in. Ella’s eyes narrowed, and she was squirming again, positively overflowing with defiance. He had to give her credit, for someone who’d only just learned about the existence of werewolves, she certainly wasn’t afraid of him. In fact, she was showing much more bravery than many fully grown wolves did facing down an Alpha. Of course, there were Alphas, and then there was Sinclair– who was strong enough to bring even the most dominant pack leaders in line. Though perhaps it was simply that Ella didn’t realize just how dangerous he was.

After a moment Ella settled, looking up at Sinclair from beneath her lashes. “Yes, sir.” She ground out, clearly hating being forced to submit.