Message from the Grandmothers for Mandy and Hawk:

Greetings, our children:

We come to you today with words of wisdom and encouragement. The path you walk is not an easy one, but know that you are not alone. We, the Grandmothers, watch over you and guide your steps, even when the way seems darkest.

Mandy, our precious daughter, we see the turmoil in your heart. The loss you have suffered weighs heavily upon you. But do not lose hope. Hawk is alive, and he needs you now more than ever. Your love is the light that will guide him through the shadows. 

Hawk, our brave warrior, we know the burden you carry. The sins of your father are not your own, and the wounds of your past need not define your future. Lean on Mandy, for she is your true north, the one who will stand beside you no matter the cost.

Together, you are a force to be reckoned with. Your love is a sacred bond, forged through trials and tribulations. It is a love that transcends time and space, a love that will conquer all that stands in your way.

We see the darkness that surrounds you, our children. Forces beyond your understanding seek to tear you apart. But we also see the strength that burns within you, the unwavering spirit that will not be extinguished.

Hold fast to one another. Trust in the wisdom of the Grandmothers. For we have walked this path before, and we know the way. 

The road ahead is treacherous, but with each other, and with our guidance, you will emerge victorious. Your destiny is woven into the very fabric of the universe. You are meant for greatness, our children.

Go forth, and let your love light the way. We will be with you, every step of the journey.

Blessed be,

The Grandmothers

He was magnificent—standing there, waiting for her to reach his side. And soon after she did, their lives became irrevocably woven together. Mandy likened it to a silvery, invisible thread, joining their hearts. And she knew the Grandmothers smiled.

She felt rebellious right now with their sure vision of her path. A path with Hawk ... their lives entwined. Her heart pounded—fanciful thoughts. But her mind soon followed down the path her heart had taken, with what would have been—could have been—had she not insisted this marriage be in name only.

“Second thoughts already?” his whisper caressed her face.

She shook her head at Hawk. “No, the marriage has its merits,” she answered, trying for a neutral tone.

He let that jab slide, grinning. “I wasn’t talking about the marriage—exactly.”

Startled, she looked up and was captured, completely off guard, by the intense look in his gold eyes. He’d read her mind again, drat the man; or was her body giving her away?

She should look away—really she should—but suddenly she couldn’t remember why.

“Give over, Mandy,” he whispered. His gaze refused to release her from the fine thread he was weaving around her. She was caressed by it—captured by it. And each time, the web grew stronger. “You want this marriage in every way, every bit as much as I; admit it, Mandy.” His low voice fanned the flames.

Mandy opened her mouth, then shut it. She fought for control, lost, and opened her mouth again, but the words of denial wouldn’t come.

His hand touched the side of her face, his thumb sliding possessively over her lips, stroking her bottom lip again and again until she thought she would faint with pleasure.

She’d made a fatal mistake with her heart, thinking she could control this. She should have listened to the danger signs—to all the warnings, and now it was too late. There was no holding back—any part of her; at least, not anything strong enough to hold back this tide of love—and desire. Even though the love part lay only on her side.

She’d been a fool.

And her heart was going to pay the price; but she couldn’t stop now.

Hawk’s intense, green-gold eyes searched her face, and knew the exact instant she surrendered, and only by iron will did he wait to hear the words.

Words avowing her complete surrender.

She nodded.

He shook his head. “Say it,” he softly commanded. “Tell me what you want.”

Mandy’s tongue darted out to moisten her lips, and she heard Hawk groan. She swallowed, her eyes closing for a moment with her body’s reaction to that simple sound. The fires were rapidly burning out of control. “You.” She looked into his golden gaze. “I want you.”

Dark Warrior: To Tame Wild Hawk