"Why not?"
He loved how she didn't hesitate to find out the reason behind his statement. "There's something in the works, something that's not public knowledge to even most of the clan, and I have to remain in control until it's completed." He paused and added, "And just know that I wish I could tell you more, but I won't violate the promises or trust placed on me. Mates tend to have more privileges, but even then, there are some things clan leaders have to keep secret for a time."
Some females would frown or say that's ridiculous. However, Delaney merely shrugged. "That sounds about right. I mean, it's not as if the prime minister is going to tell his or her partner about a silent strike, or recovery operation, or the like. Well, in some cases, I'm sure. Besides, everyone has boundaries and secrets."
"Between true mates, there aren't many boundaries, though. And some clan leaders confide everything in their mates, and even plan things together."
She tapped her fingers against her thigh. "So if I agree to this true-mate plan, is that what it'll be like between us?"
A small flash of hope flickered inside him. Maybe Delaney would say yes. Or at least it sounded like she was becoming more open to the idea. "Eventually, yes. But I can't share other clans' secrets unless they trust you, too. So we'd just have to convince them of it."
She turned and walked to the far side of the room. "If I say yes, what happens next?"
His beast roared. She will be ours. Soon, so very soon. It means we need to work hard to finish the operation with Stonefire.
She still hasn't said yes, yet.
But she will.
He focused back on Delaney. "There would be an announcement. And until the ceremony could be arranged, you'd probably stay with Gwendolen Price, a former Protector trainee with a half-human child."
Delaney's eyes widened. "I thought Rian was the only one on Snowridge."
"Cora—that's Gwen's daughter—is the only other one. But that is a long story, and one that Gwen should tell you, not me."
It took everything he had not to move back to Delaney's side. He needed to end the conversation and say his goodbyes for the night, or he might end up doing something stupid, like kiss the human. So he added, "I can introd
uce you to her tomorrow. So, will you consider it?"
She bobbed her head. "Aye. I'll have an answer for you in the morning."
His beast grunted. That's not good enough.
It'll have to be. Now, shush. He spoke to Delaney. "Then we should probably say goodnight for now."
Delaney's gaze traveled to the door, the one behind which Rian slept. "Will Rian be able to stay with me and Gwen, too, if I say yes? I think it'll be good for him to meet another child like him."
"I don't see why not. We can finalize the details tomorrow after you have an answer for me." Just for fun, he bowed deeply. "Good night, Miss Murphy."
He expected a snort, but when he raised his head, Rhydian saw the smile on Delaney's face. She replied, "Goodnight, Mr. Griffiths."
She did a quick twirl and exited the room before he even laughed.
Since Eira would be waiting to escort Delaney to her room, he stayed where he was, reliving the dance and ensuing conversation with Delaney.
The evening had made him realize how much he needed the female in his life. And not just for Rian's sake, either.
Rhydian bloody hoped she said yes to his plan. He wasn't sure he could take no for an answer and go back to his lonely, work-focused life.
Chapter Eight
Delaney had spent yet another long, restless night, barely getting any sleep despite the fact she'd decided what she was going to do not long after leaving Rhydian's place.
She wanted to try being mated to him and see how it went.
Mostly for Rian's sake, but also for her own. The dancing the night before, as well as the teasing, had felt more than nice. Not to mention she'd never felt so at ease around someone she'd known for two days.
Hell, she'd had boyfriends for months and months who hadn't been as charming or honest with her. Yes, there was still a lot to learn about him—no one was perfect, after all—but if he'd earned Rian's love already, then Rhydian was probably a keeper. Not to mention the way Lily Owens and her family obviously thought well of him, too.