- 5 hours ago
Category
🎥
Short filmTranscript
00:05My shifter Dorian was a spoiled white lion. He was a handful. He wouldn't let me hold him, or kiss
00:11him.
00:12But he was the most beautiful thing I'd ever seen.
00:15I believed that if I treated him well enough, he would eventually fall for me.
00:19So I was always patient with him.
00:24However, in this mission, he spent the whole fight soothing my sister, not me.
00:30I almost died on that floor.
00:33I woke up in the hospital.
00:36The first thing I did was file to swap him out.
00:39The staff member checked the manual and told me,
00:41There's only one shifter free right now, and he won't come come without his twin brother.
00:46Buy one, get one free?
00:47Not quite. The brother can't soothe anyone. He's just an ordinary shifter.
00:51And shifters cost a lot to feed. Nobody wants to raise another one.
00:56I went quiet.
00:59Then my phone buzzed. A text from Dorian.
01:03How stingy. So what if I didn't save you? You won't even cook for me now?
01:08Come home and I'll let you pet my tail. Better now?
01:12He detached a photo of his white tail, caught mid-swing.
01:15Dorian knows how to coax me.
01:17And he always succeeds.
01:19Because he knows I like to touch his fluffy tail.
01:22I almost texted back.
01:24However, the memory of the day he abandons me suddenly flooded back.
01:28And my whole hand went cold.
01:31That day, my power and Sienna's broke at the same time.
01:35The surge nearly tore my mind in half.
01:37I couldn't even scream.
01:38All I could do was grab Dorian's sleeve.
01:41Save me, Dorian!
01:42He was a rank S-lion, fully able to do it.
01:45But he pried my fingers off his sleeve.
01:47His face was full of disgust.
01:48You're filthy.
01:49Don't touch me with that.
01:51My hand was covered in the blood I'd coughed up.
01:53He didn't say sorry, just went straight for Sienna.
01:56He pulled Sienna into his arms and soothed her over and over.
02:00He had never once showed me either.
02:02My vision went dark at the edges.
02:04In my last second of consciousness, something cold reached me.
02:08It wrapped around the chaos inside me and held it still.
02:11I didn't know whose it was.
02:12Only that it wasn't Dorian.
02:14I stood there in a daze for a long time.
02:16The caseworker asked me again.
02:19Are you sure you want to swap?
02:22Your shifter is a rank S white lion.
02:25That's a rare thing.
02:26She slid a coffee and a cupcake across the desk.
02:29I took a bite of the cupcake without thinking.
02:32I knew exactly how rare Dorian was.
02:36But I looked down at my hand.
02:38The ache in my fingers still hadn't faded.
02:41No flick of Dorian's tail was going to fix that.
02:45So I nod.
02:47Yes.
02:48I want a shifter I can hold and kiss.
02:51One who's loyal to me.
02:55The caseworker looked a little awkward.
02:57You can test loyalty during the trial period.
03:00But the one we have left isn't the holding and kissing type.
03:03Why not?
03:05His name is Silas.
03:07He's a snake shifter.
03:09No soft fur.
03:10But he's gentle.
03:11I promise.
03:12You can see it in how he raises his little brother.
03:14He's patient and good at taking care of people.
03:16So it was a snake.
03:17I tensed without meaning too.
03:19That was probably why no one had taken him.
03:21People want mammal shifters.
03:23Soft and harmless.
03:24Snakes feel cold blooded and sly.
03:26The caseworker saw me hesitate and kept talking him up.
03:29Silas really is good.
03:30See these pastries?
03:32He's the one who sent them.
03:33I looked at the cupcake I'd already bitten into.
03:36The sweetness was still on my tongue.
03:38The caseworker kept going.
03:40Bonded shifters live differently from the rest.
03:42Silas has never been chosen so he gets by alone.
03:45He takes missions sometimes.
03:47The pay is next to nothing.
03:49The gap between one shifter and another really was something.
03:53Dorian had never worked a day in his life.
03:55Back home, he wouldn't even carry a plate to the sink.
03:58I said nothing.
03:59If Simus isn't right, that's okay.
04:01We'll call you when a better match comes in.
04:03She stood and wrapped up a slice of cake for me.
04:06On the house.
04:07Like it?
04:07Turn right two streets over.
04:09That's his little bakery.
04:10I took the cake but didn't leave.
04:12Let me see his file.
04:13She blinked.
04:14She blinked then pulled it up.
04:16Pleased I'd asked.
04:17The second I saw the photo.
04:19I froze.
04:20It was him.
04:23The cold that saved me at the very end had belonged to this face.
04:26His name was Silas, and I never would have guessed.
04:30The caseworker thought I was put off by the rank.
04:32He's only rank B, but with training he'll come up.
04:35It's fine.
04:35I'll take him.
04:37She had the provisional bond done in minutes.
04:39He's still out on a mission.
04:41I've told him he's been chosen.
04:42The formal bond comes after he returns.
04:44Once the trial period ends, you can register.
04:48You can take his brother, River, home now.
04:50I took the address and went to get him.
04:53River came home with me, sweet and easy the whole way.
04:56I opened our door.
04:57A vase came flying at my head.
04:59It hit the floor and shattered by my feet.
05:02Wrynn, why are you only coming back now?
05:04Dorian stood there, furious.
05:05You ignore my texts, won't cook and sulk over nothing.
05:09He was beautiful, even angry.
05:12Before I could speak, a worried voice came from behind me.
05:15Rink, are you hurt?
05:16River crouched and looked closely at my ankle.
05:18His fingers ran cool over my skin and I shivered.
05:21Let me clean this up for you.
05:23A shard had cut my ankle.
05:24I started to say I was fine.
05:26He sat me down and pulled antiseptic from his bag.
05:29Wyn, who is he?
05:31Dorian had never been ignored like this.
05:33He bit out every word.
05:35Me?
05:35I'm Wyn's shifter.
05:36She just got out of the hospital and needs rest.
05:39Keep shouting and you'll scare her.
05:41River stayed perfectly calm.
05:42Wyn, how dare you?
05:44You bring a filthy snake into our home, throw him out, or I walk.
05:49River's hands went still.
05:50Dorian lifted his chin smug.
05:52You're a rank A.
05:54Matching me was already a stretch.
05:58And now you drag home another shifter?
06:01Something that can't even soothe under my roof?
06:05I feared Dorian leaving more than anything.
06:07Once he stormed out in a temper.
06:09That night he almost got grabbed by traffickers.
06:11After that, any a reasonable demand and I'd give in.
06:14But this time, I only felt disappointed.
06:16Since the accident, he hadn't said one kind word.
06:19My health, my feelings, none of it crossed his mind.
06:22He only cared about himself.
06:24I was tired, down to my bones.
06:26And somehow it all came clear.
06:27I'd spent long enough living at his mercy.
06:29You go, Dorian.
06:31I've already filed to swap you out.
06:34I am not good enough for you.
06:36My nose stung as I said it.
06:37Some part of me still hoped he'd panic or say he was wrong.
06:40I just wanted some sign that he cared.
06:42I didn't want much.
06:43Just a home and someone who cared.
06:44But now I understood.
06:46He didn't care.
06:46To at Dorian, my kindness was simply his due.
06:49He even thought being with me was the real hardship.
06:52Dorian's face went white for a second.
06:54It passed fast.
06:55His eyes cut to River.
06:57Still fussing over my ankle.
06:58He was getting a little impatient.
07:00Enough.
07:01You're saying all this so I'll get jealous and apologize?
07:04You even dragged some ordinary snake in to spite me.
07:07I chose to save Sienna because she is stronger than you.
07:10I didn't think you'd be childish enough to forget what matters.
07:13He crossed the room and reached to take the swab from At River.
07:17River didn't move.
07:18Just looked up at me.
07:19The most important thing for a shifter is loyalty.
07:21Rin.
07:22I'm not like him.
07:23I'll always put you first.
07:25Loyalty was the one thing At Dorian never gave me.
07:28I looked up at Dorian.
07:30Then what about me?
07:31Does my life just not matter?
07:33Don't forget you're my mate.
07:36Before I could answer, his complaints came pouring out.
07:39Keeping you stable is the job.
07:41That's it.
07:41If you hadn't butted in, I'd be Sienna's mate by now.
07:44We're both S rank.
07:46A perfect match.
07:47Go be with your useless snake.
07:49Just don't come begging me back.
07:50There was no guilt in it at all.
07:52So that was what he really thought of me?
07:54He'd look down on me the whole time.
07:56Sure he deserved better.
07:58My chest throbbed.
07:59A whole year of trying had made a clown of me.
08:01Dorian banged around packing, dragging it out.
08:04I made no move to keep him.
08:05I called him back before he left.
08:07Wait.
08:10He turned back, smug.
08:15Regretting it already?
08:17I'll tell you now, next time I'll still save Sienna first.
08:21Before he could finish, I cut in.
08:23Apologize to River.
08:27He's not disgusting.
08:28And he's going to be my family.
08:31Dorian couldn't believe it.
08:32Are you insane?
08:34He'd never been wronged under my roof, and he was proud.
08:36Now I wanted him to bow to an ordinary shifter.
08:39Otherwise, I report you.
08:42You abandoned.
08:43You're bonded to soothe someone else.
08:45That's a federal tribunal offense.
08:47Dorian was very reluctant, but he had no choice but to do it.
08:51Fine.
08:52Remember everything you said today.
08:54I hope you won't regret it.
08:55River grabbed my sleeve and shook his head.
08:58He didn't want to put me in a difficult position.
09:02Rin, it's okay if he doesn't apologize.
09:05I don't want you two fighting over me.
09:07As long as you're happy, I'm fine either way.
09:11Dorian's brow nodded hard.
09:13My stance was firm.
09:15I insisted that Dorian apologize.
09:17I know that if Dorian doesn't apologize today, he will only humiliate Rivers even more in the future.
09:23Sorry, okay?
09:25Darian looked angry.
09:26He shot me one last look.
09:30Then he slammed the door and left.
09:34After Dorian left, River took my hand.
09:38Rin, if you can't let him go, I'll bring him back.
09:42He started to stand and go after him.
09:44I caught his arm fast.
09:45No.
09:46He's nothing to me from now on.
09:48You and your brother are my family.
09:51River's pale green eyes rounded a little.
09:53He laced his fingers through mine.
09:55Hmm.
09:57Rin is family.
09:58Darian's leaving had left me a little low.
10:00River's steady warmth pulled me right back up.
10:03I helped him set up his room.
10:05He loved the pink sheets.
10:07Said they were sweet.
10:08Dorian only ever called my taste childish.
10:11He told me to learn from Sienna and be a mature and charming woman.
10:19Next, I took River out for household things.
10:21He thanked me sweetly for the trouble.
10:24You look worn out, Rin.
10:26I hope this helps.
10:29Then, with his own money, he bought a pillow to help me sleep.
10:33Holding that soft pillow, my heart melted.
10:36For a whole year, I'd showered Dorian with gifts.
10:39He never gave one back.
10:41And he was picky.
10:43Maybe River's pillow was just him trying to win me over.
10:46Even so, it beat a man who used me and sneered.
10:49Next to that, Dorian leaving was nothing to mourn.
10:52With River around, I was doing just fine.
10:55So when Sienna called, I picked up in a good mood.
10:58Rin, there's a limit to throwing tantrums.
11:01Dorian is rare.
11:02What's there to be angry about?
11:03Come apologize properly tomorrow and take him back.
11:06Her tone looked down on me.
11:07Behind her, Dorian's careless voice drifted through.
11:09Tell her I won't go unless she begs me.
11:11Keep him if you like him.
11:12I couldn't be bothered.
11:13You've wanted my thing since we were kids anyway.
11:15Sienna let out a cold laugh.
11:16Please.
11:17Not everyone is obsessed with fighting over men.
11:20Come apologize nicely or you'll lose Dorian for good.
11:26Just then, River came out of the shower.
11:29Steam clung to him, water sliding from his wet hair.
11:32His open robe showed a wide stretch of chest.
11:34Drops ran down his skin and vanished at his waist.
11:37The steam left my cheeks burning.
11:38In human form, River suited my taste better than Dorian.
11:41River stepped close.
11:42I never awaken to power, but I've got plenty of strength.
11:45His scent filled the space between us.
11:47Want me to check you over, Wynne?
11:48By the time I realized what was happening, he was already very close to me.
11:51I liked this, but I still had to bond with his brother.
11:54I hadn't even met Simus and here I was with River.
11:57Then Dorian's furious voice burst from the phone still in my hand.
12:01Wynne, you touch him and see what happens.
12:04Get off her, you filthy snake!
12:06I cut the call fast.
12:08I looked up into River's flushed eyes.
12:10Do you find me disgusting too, Wynne?
12:12You know I'm timid.
12:13I can't sleep alone at night.
12:15He pressed my hand to his chest.
12:19Feel that, Wynne?
12:21My heart's racing.
12:22It is really soft.
12:24I mean, it's racing.
12:29Do you like it, Wynne?
12:32I...
12:33I...
12:34I do.
12:37His mouth found mine before I finished the word.
12:39The kiss started slow, then turned hungry.
12:42He pulled back just far enough to speak.
12:44Tell me to stop and I will.
12:46Cool hands slid under my shirt and up my ribs.
12:48He backed me into the couch until my knees gave.
12:51You're so warm, Wynne.
12:52Then he was over me.
12:53All warmth and weight.
12:55His lips traveled down my throat, unhurried and sure.
12:58Every touch pulled a sound out of me I couldn't hold.
13:01For a timid boy, you're very sure of yourself.
13:04He smiled against my skin.
13:06Only with you.
13:07River took his time, learning what made me arch.
13:11Say my name.
13:13Not his.
13:15River...
13:16His tail wound around my ankle and held me there.
13:19That's it.
13:20Just me tonight.
13:21River showed me exactly what he meant by strength.
13:24Snakes are built differently.
13:25And the pleasure doubled that night.
13:27So I ignored every call from Dorian, then blocked him.
13:30Before long, fists pounded on the door.
13:32Rink!
13:33I know you're home!
13:34Open up!
13:34His shouting hammered at my ears.
13:36I paused.
13:37Pushing myself up off River.
13:39River's breath was ragged.
13:40Stay for me, Wynne.
13:42Of course I would stay.
13:43Dorian had never once made me feel this good.
13:46Let him yell himself out.
13:48Soon the hall went quiet.
13:49Security must have hauled him off.
13:53The next morning, River and I went out.
13:55Dorian was waiting outside.
13:57Eyes shot through with red.
13:58He saw our fingers laced together, and his face soured.
14:02Ryn, even if you beg now I won't come back.
14:06Just wait.
14:07Next mission I won't care if you die.
14:09He threw the words at me and walked off.
14:12I took it for the hot air it was.
14:15I didn't expect to see him again so soon.
14:17But two days later, the mission threw us together.
14:20On a deployment, the bonding agency sends shifters who can soothe.
14:24But channelers far outnumber them.
14:26Those who can afford it apply for a bonded mate.
14:29A bonded shifter guards their partner the moment it counts.
14:33Everyone else just grits her teeth and waits.
14:36I'd already told Seelness about this mission.
14:39He promised to come the second his last one ended.
14:41I was watching for him when Sienna strode over.
14:44Dorian trailed behind her.
14:46She glanced past me.
14:48No little snake today?
14:49Oh right.
14:50He has no power.
14:51So, he can't deploy.
14:53Don't be stubborn, Ryn.
14:54This mission is dangerous.
14:57Apologize to Dorian.
14:58He'll forgive you.
14:59And protect you.
15:01Protect me?
15:02I almost laughed.
15:04You keep him.
15:06Sienna still thinks I'm jealous of her.
15:09Her expression was arrogant.
15:11I'm not interested in fighting you over a man.
15:15I only care about being a better channeler.
15:17She really thought she was something.
15:19I just find her ridiculous.
15:21Sienna, what about you is worth my envy?
15:24Being the daughter of the woman who broke my family?
15:26Or having my spineless father?
15:28Enough!
15:29Dorian cut in.
15:30Talk to Sienna like that again and I will never forgive you again.
15:34He'd said it so many times my ears were numb.
15:42Forgot to mention, Dorian.
15:44Know why Sienna won't bond with you?
15:48Word is an SSS shifter turned up.
15:50She's aiming higher, and you still trail her like a dog.
15:54Dorian sputtered that I was impossible, over and over.
15:58Then, the mission began.
16:00The swarm's first wave hit and we threw our power at it.
16:05The attack was brutal.
16:08My head started to ache.
16:10I pulled back to catch my breath, head pounding.
16:15Dorian's devotion had Sienna back on her feet.
16:19Shifters were limited, and my turn hadn't come.
16:23Then Dorian appeared at my side.
16:25Second wave's coming. Can you even take it?
16:27Toss that snake. Let's go back to the past.
16:30As if I wanted that, I have a bonded mate.
16:33Don't trouble yourself.
16:34Dorian opened his mouth to needle me again.
16:37Then he stopped dead.
16:38I looked up.
16:39The face was nearly River's, but not quite.
16:42Sorry to keep you waiting.
16:43His eyes were darker than River's, and hard to look away from.
16:47His fingers settled on my forehead.
16:48Is now a good time to soothe.
16:50I nodded.
16:53He pressed his forehead to mine and began, ignoring Dorian.
16:58Dorian's voice cracked.
17:00Who is he?
17:01He can soothe.
17:04You're really replacing me?
17:05Strange.
17:06He was only rank B.
17:07But the soothing was quick, and it felt good.
17:10When it ended, my power sat full and steady.
17:12I could take two more waves easily.
17:14Even rank S Dorian had never managed that.
17:16Only then did Silas turn to him.
17:18I'm Silas.
17:19Wern's legal mate.
17:22Dorian looked from him to me.
17:23Some nerve win.
17:25New mate?
17:26And you bet it his brother too.
17:28He warmed to it, sneering at Silas.
17:30Legal?
17:31So what?
17:32She's already shacked up with your brother.
17:34Doesn't that stain?
17:35Silas barely reacted.
17:37His face was sharper than River's.
17:39Cold and commanding.
17:41He gave me a glance, then faced Dorian.
17:46We belong to her.
17:48With Silas there, the mission wrapped up easily.
17:52At home, River was still at the bakery.
17:55Alone with Silas, I felt strangely on edge.
17:58His face was beautiful enough to be a little eerie.
18:03Did you mean what you said?
18:05Which part?
18:07That you belong to me.
18:09Yes.
18:09By the shifter code, body and mind go to your mate.
18:14You took me with River, so he's yours too.
18:18Does he satisfy you?
18:22I swallowed.
18:23How did he say such things so flatly?
18:25My face went hot.
18:27He...
18:28He does.
18:29I'll satisfy you too.
18:31He stood, unbuttoned his shirt.
18:34Tan skin showed at his open collar.
18:39What are you doing?
18:41Satisfying you.
18:42His cool palm cupped my foot.
18:44My toes curled before I could stop them.
18:46How do you like it?
18:47His voice had a lazy, unsettling pull.
18:50A tingle crept up from my soul.
18:51Do what?
18:52Exactly?
18:53I'll do my best to make you comfortable.
18:55Was that the kind of comfortable I was thinking?
18:57My face only burned water.
18:59I cleared my throat, playing it cool.
19:01Now?
19:02Sila nodded.
19:03Whatever you'd like.
19:04Could I really say no?
19:05I nodded like crazy, faking shy.
19:07He lifted me with ease and carried me to the bathroom.
19:10The water's ready.
19:11After your bath, dinner's served.
19:13By the time I blinked, he'd shut the door behind him.
19:15I stared at the steam rising off the tub.
19:18Then it hit me what he meant by comfortable.
19:20He meant taking care of me.
19:22Oh no.
19:22Had I just made it weird?
19:24God, how embarrassing!
19:27I dragged myself out of the bath.
19:29Silas, in an apron, set the last list dish on the table.
19:33River-plated rice, eyes bright when he saw me.
19:36Come eat, Wynn.
19:38My brother's a great cook.
19:42A full spread waited.
19:44Meat and vegetables both.
19:45The smell had my stomach growling on cue.
19:48Silas untied his apron.
19:50Voice even as ever.
19:52Your file said no allergies.
19:54So I made a few things.
19:55Tell me if it's not to your taste.
19:57Too shy to look at him, I mumbled and dug in.
19:59It was so good.
20:02Roast chicken, buttery potatoes, crisp greens, a warm soup.
20:07I went through two helpings without stopping.
20:11After, I got up to do the dishes myself.
20:14Dorian never cooked or washed a single plate.
20:19Brynn, I've got it.
20:21With the brothers sharing chores, I could pitch in too.
20:24River swept up the dishes before I could move.
20:27He worked fast and neat, clearly used to it.
20:31He wiped the table clean while he was at it.
20:34Then what do I do?
20:36Having chores taken off me.
20:38Felt strange.
20:40You've had a long day.
20:42Just rest.
20:48Cymus had already sliced fruit onto the coffee table.
20:52Oranges and mango, with strawberries and blueberries on top.
20:56For once, I ate fruit and watched TV after dinner.
21:00No nagging chores hanging over me.
21:03If I'd known dumping Dorian meant this, I'd have done it sooner.
21:08What was I ever sad about?
21:10River finished the dishes and went to read.
21:13No power, but his grades were excellent.
21:16Silas mopped the floor in silence.
21:19He even hand-washed my delicates and hung them to dry.
21:23He caught me watching him.
21:25Our eyes met, and I felt caught snooping.
21:29Ahem, thank you, I said, laughing awkwardly.
21:33Of course.
21:34It's what I'm here for.
21:36He came over, that cold air around him, voice calm.
21:40I don't share a room with River.
21:42He grinds his teeth.
21:46Tonight I'm staying with you.
21:51Oh, sure, sure, I swallowed, nervous.
21:55Actually, I think I grind my teeth too.
22:00So you'd rather be with River?
22:02I shook my head.
22:08Then it settled.
22:11That night I lay awake to Silas's soft breathing.
22:14Honestly I was happy with him.
22:16At work, his soothing and mine fit together perfectly.
22:19At home he ran things and made my life easy.
22:22But he was still so cold.
22:24Right now we shared a bed with a gap between us.
22:26I didn't even know if he was happy with me.
22:29After the trial, bonding would need both of us to agree.
22:32I shook the thought off.
22:34Too far ahead to worry about.
22:35I got up for water in the living room.
22:37The second I filled my glass, River's door opened.
22:40Then two arms wound around my waist.
22:43Wren, can my stiff brother ever make you feel this good?
22:46His head nuzzled into my neck.
22:48I opened my mouth, but nothing came out.
22:50His soft lips found mine first.
22:53Wren, I missed you.
22:54Don't push me away, okay?
22:56He clung so sweetly I couldn't get a no out.
22:59Then he lifted me onto the counter, never breaking the kiss.
23:02His hands slid up my thighs, cool and certain.
23:10I waited all day for this.
23:12You saw me an hour ago.
23:15An hour's too long.
23:17He pressed closer and my breath caught.
23:19Every shy thing about him vanished in the dark.
23:22Tell me you want me to, Wren.
23:24I do, I do.
23:27He took that as all the permission he needed.
23:30The counter then the floor, then somewhere I lost track.
23:33By the time we stilled, the sky was going grey.
23:36I never did make it back to my own bed.
23:48Intro
23:59Mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm
24:02By morning river had already left for class.
24:05I opened his door to Silas's voice from the kitchen.
24:08Breakfast ready?
24:09Wash up and come eat.
24:10I'd meant to slip back to my room last night.
24:12But River was relentless and I slept in, aching.
24:15I could barely show my face.
24:17Cleaned up.
24:18I sat down and caught him staring.
24:20His features were almost too perfect to meet head on.
24:23What is it?
24:26His fingers brushed my lip.
24:30Here.
24:31It's split.
24:32His touch sent a jolt through the spot.
24:34River had been to rough the night before.
24:36I blinked and lied.
24:37Probably just dry weather.
24:39River doesn't know how to be gentle with a human.
24:41He hurt you.
24:42I'm sorry.
24:43Why spell it out?
24:45Now we were both mortified.
24:47My face went up in flames and my mouth ran off.
24:50So do you know how to be gentle?
24:52The second I said it, I wanted to disappear.
24:54That only made it worse.
24:55Silas stood, came over, and leaned down to me.
24:58Of course.
24:59Then he closed the distance.
25:01His scent was cool, quiet, but impossible to ignore.
25:04His kiss was soft, patient, lingering.
25:07He didn't let go until I was breathless and sighing.
25:10His lips were wet, his eyes dark.
25:13I'd never hurt you, Rin.
25:15Too flustered to think, I blurted praise.
25:19Hmm.
25:19That was good.
25:21I liked it.
25:22Then don't sneak off tonight.
25:24Tonight you're mine.
25:26All day I turned Silas's two lines over in my head.
25:29Nervous and hopeful at once.
25:31But before evening my father called.
25:33We hadn't spoken in a long time.
25:35I almost thought I'd misread the screen.
25:37Sienna says you dumped the lion for a rank B snake.
25:41So the lion didn't save you first.
25:43Big deal.
25:43With that many shifters there, were you going to die?
25:46An S-ranked lion is more than you deserve.
25:49I couldn't see why I owed anyone forgiveness.
25:53So I have to rank below Sienna forever?
25:56Whenever she's around, I can never come first?
25:58This is the last time I call you father.
25:59You can't put me first.
26:01Someone else can't.
26:02Talking to him was a waste of my time.
26:04I was about to hang up when he roared.
26:06I don't care about the lion.
26:08You will not take a snake.
26:10Cross me and you won't see a scent of mine.
26:15I laughed, furious.
26:16You spent a hundred grand on Sienna's birthday in college.
26:19You wouldn't cover my tuition.
26:20I never touched your money.
26:21Keep it.
26:21Let it rot.
26:22I hung up and blocked him, still fusing.
26:25My phone rang again.
26:26It was the bonding agency.
26:28Your bonded shifter was reassessed.
26:30He came back SSS.
26:31He has a better match now.
26:32Your bond is still provisional.
26:33So please come in.
26:34We need to see which partner he'll choose.
26:36Then it clicked.
26:36Marcus pushed me towards the lion to save the snake for Sienna.
26:43Silas texted that he was waiting at the agency.
26:47What would he think?
26:51He'd pick the better match too.
26:53I changed in silence, watching myself in the mirror.
26:58The split on my lips still hadn't healed.
27:01I braced to be left behind and went anyway.
27:05Life doesn't end because one person walks away.
27:08At the agency, I reached the mediation room door.
27:12Before I pushed it open, I heard Sienna inside.
27:16By rank and by money, I suit you better than rank.
27:20No one answered.
27:21My sister loves new toys and tires of them.
27:24Her last shifter was a pretty white lion.
27:27She needs people pouring feelings into her.
27:30It's exhausting.
27:32I've never depended on a man.
27:36I almost barged in to slap her.
27:38Then Sienna spoke, flat and calm.
27:41You never needed a shifter mate before.
27:43Why now?
27:44Oh, because of you.
27:45You're strong.
27:46I'm strong.
27:47So you don't value feelings, only usefulness?
27:50Sienna coughed.
27:51A mate gives emotional value.
27:52It means she needs me.
27:54You, the so-called S rank, aren't stronger than rank.
27:58Every mission with you.
28:00She was the one who saved it.
28:02Missions with him?
28:03I didn't remember any.
28:05Then again, in full gear, I'd never seen his face.
28:10If he hadn't lifted his visor once, I wouldn't own him.
28:13A worker urged me in.
28:15The session was starting.
28:17I followed her into the room.
28:19Silas sat straight.
28:21Sienna shot me a resentful look.
28:23When asked who we'd choose, Silas glanced at me.
28:26I'd heard it all outside so I just smiled.
28:28Sienna kept listing the assets she controlled.
28:31I choose when.
28:32Silas said, calm as ever.
28:34You'll regret it!
28:36Sienna shouted.
28:37Mates, strengthen each other.
28:39With me, you'd grow stronger.
28:41Choosing her will only drag you down.
28:44Silas didn't bother answering.
28:46He took my hand and led me to register the bond.
28:51We got home late.
28:52River was at the lab overnight.
28:55Silas ran my bath and took care of me as always.
28:58I had so much I wanted to say.
29:00I wanted to thank him for choosing me so firmly.
29:03I turned and found he hadn't left the bathroom.
29:06Why are you still here?
29:08Why didn't you say anything to keep me?
29:11I heard you out there.
29:13I knew you'd choose me.
29:16Thank you for standing by me like that.
29:18I smiled and finally got the words out.
29:21He looked down at me and leaned in.
29:23If you don't say it, I can't know.
29:25I love you.
29:27So tell me how you feel too.
29:28My heart slammed.
29:29He'd just said he loved me.
29:31I nodded.
29:32I like you.
29:34I'll come to love you, for sure.
29:36He laughed softly above me.
29:38Then I want a reward.
29:40What?
29:42Before I finished, he pulled me in.
29:44We sank slowly into the warm water.
29:48His arms circled my waist from behind.
29:53Let me take care of you.
29:55With River I had always led.
29:56Selvis turned that around and gave everything to me.
29:59His cool mouth moved along my shoulder, slow and deliberate.
30:03Tell me what feels good.
30:06Everything.
30:07Just keep going.
30:08His hands mapped me with no hurry at all.
30:11The cold of him against my heat made me shudder.
30:14Look at me, man.
30:15I did, and his pale eyes had gone dark.
30:18He worked me higher, patient and unbearably sure.
30:21Be mine now.
30:22Say it.
30:24I'm yours.
30:27The water went still around us, and then it didn't.
30:31He took me apart slowly, then put me back together.
30:35I'd never been wanted so quietly, or so completely.
30:46After that night, I woke up clear-headed.
30:50My power even felt a little stronger.
30:52It was a rare day off, so Silas took me grocery shopping.
30:57He named a dozen ways to cook everything I picked up.
31:02Mouthwatering, I ordered ten dishes on the spot.
31:06No rush.
31:08I'll cook them all for you in time.
31:10I can even build you your own menu app.
31:13Order whatever you want, whenever you want it.
31:18Does it cost anything?
31:19I hugged his arm.
31:24How about one kiss?
31:27I went up on my toes and pecked his chin.
31:30Silas smiled again, and my heart went sweet.
31:34The good mood didn't last long.
31:36Heading to the garage, bags in hand, we saw Dorian.
31:40His clothes were the ones I'd bought him, dirty now.
31:43He looked hangered, jaw rough with stubble.
31:45Our joined hands made him flinch hard.
31:48Rin, there are things I want to talk about.
31:51I glanced at Silas, then shook my head.
31:55Say it here.
31:57I won't have Silas misreading anything.
32:00You've known him how long?
32:01Dorian burst out.
32:03Doesn't matter.
32:04Talk, or I'm leaving.
32:06Wait!
32:08Dorian gritted his teeth.
32:10If you like being looked after, I can do that.
32:12He's a rank B snake.
32:14I'm an S.
32:16From now on, I'll put you first.
32:19Deal?
32:19No!
32:20I said, I shaking my head.
32:22Didn't you call Sienna your perfect match?
32:24Go register with her.
32:26Dorian had looked crushed, then brightened at that.
32:29I knew you still cared.
32:31You're just hung up on Sienna.
32:33I won't say that garbage again, I swear.
32:35She's awful.
32:36Can't cook, won't wash up, won't spend a dime.
32:39I was wrong, Rin.
32:40Let's go back to normal.
32:44So I was the fool he could fall back on.
32:47He stepped closer.
32:49Simus blocked him.
32:50You were wrong?
32:51Or just can't stand the down grain?
32:54Who are you to talk back to me?
32:56Damian raised a hand.
32:58I grabbed it before it landed.
33:00Don't lose it in front of me.
33:02You asked who Silas is.
33:04He's my mate.
33:05My family.
33:06And he's rank S.S.
33:08Higher than you'll ever reach.
33:11Dorian froze.
33:13Impossible.
33:14Why would someone like that want you?
33:16Even now, he still looked down on me.
33:18Silas gave a cold laugh.
33:19Everyone will love Rin.
33:21No one wants you.
33:24He led me to the car and left Dorian behind.
33:26In the passenger seat, I was still a little angry.
33:29I could help asking him something.
33:31Being with me, don't you feel cheated at all?
33:34Simus shook his head.
33:39None at all.
33:41If you'd been perfect, a perfect man would have claimed you.
33:44Where would that leave room for me?
33:45I noticed you a long time ago.
33:47You always charged in first, steady and responsible.
33:50I thought, if only I could be matched to you.
33:56But you'd already chosen someone.
33:58Lucky for me, he was blind and let you go.
34:00So the quiet one had been pining all this time.
34:03He told me he'd hidden his real rank on purpose.
34:05Too high a rank.
34:07And even a snake gets snatched up.
34:09He'd met me on a mission.
34:10After I took a head wound.
34:12I'd pulled off my helmet.
34:13And he fell for me on the spot.
34:15He'd watched over me ever since.
34:19Then he told me something stranger.
34:21When I soothe you, something always feels off.
34:24Your brain shows signs of surgery.
34:27Blocking part of your power.
34:29How could that be?
34:30I'd never had brain surgery in my life.
34:33Then it hit me.
34:34The wisdom teeth as a kid.
34:35The dentist had knocked me fully out.
34:37No reason given.
34:39Could someone have operated while I was under?
34:41Silas gave a small nod.
34:44My advice is to get it checked at a real hospital.
34:49The hospital report came the next day.
34:52I steadied myself before I opened it.
34:54Even braced.
34:55The words hit hard.
34:56I'd had brain surgery.
34:58Tears rose as I read it confirmed.
35:00No wonder Marcus suddenly cared about my wisdom teeth.
35:08He took me in to operate on my brain.
35:13Brain surgery directly affects a channeler's rank.
35:19Every human baby is assessed at birth for future rank.
35:24I tracked down my original birth assessment.
35:27It listed my awakening rank as SSS.
35:31It was almost funny.
35:33I'd thought I once had a sliver of his love.
35:36Instead, it was proof he'd tried to ruin me.
35:40Why could he never stand to see me do well?
35:43I took both reports to the federal court.
35:47I sued my father and the hospital that operated.
35:50The court takes crimes against channelers seriously.
35:55They built a task force and investigated at once.
35:59The verdict was clean.
36:01Marcus, my biological father, had harmed a minor channeler.
36:05They gave him life in prison.
36:07The hospital staff lost their licenses and faced charges.
36:11After the ruling, Marcus asked to see me.
36:14I didn't go.
36:16Sienna came instead, snarling that I was ungrateful.
36:20I'd been too busy burying Marcus to deal with her.
36:23So I reported her faked rank while I was at it.
36:25If he could bribe a hospital, he could bribe assessors.
36:28Her SSS was bought.
36:30But she tested rank A, same as me.
36:33The agency had poured years of support into her.
36:36They have zero tolerance for fraud.
36:39They stripped her rights for life and gave her a life sentence.
36:44I had the news sent to Marcus in his cell.
36:53He took ill and died not long after.
36:56In the end, the huge estate came to me.
37:00I had everything of Marcus and Sienna's thrown out.
37:03River tagged along, happily picking his future room.
37:09Rin, you're so good.
37:11Why couldn't that man see it?
37:13He meant Marcus.
37:15I thought about it, then answered, at peace.
37:19In his heart, Sienna and her mother came first.
37:23My mother built his company with him from nothing.
37:26Then he cheated, and Sienna was born.
37:29My mother sank into depression and died, leaving me.
37:33Everything good always went to Sienna.
37:35But my predicted rank was far higher than hers.
37:38On her deathbed, Sienna's mother begged him to ruin me.
37:43He agreed.
37:44He agreed.
37:45I'd read all of it in Marcus's diary.
37:47River wrapped his arms around me.
37:49It's okay, Wayne.
37:50That old home is gone.
37:52From now on, my brother and I are your family.
37:54We'll always see how good you are.
37:56His sweet talk left me completely disarmed.
37:59We made a happy mess of his new room.
38:02That night, I crept back to the main bedroom.
38:05Silas was still awake.
38:07He sat up and undid his buttons, one by one.
38:11Fair is fair.
38:13I want my turn, too.
38:14He asked for it as seriously as everything else.
38:17I had a feeling I was in for a lot.
38:19He drew me down onto the bed, calm and unhurrying.
38:23You let River have you twice this week.
38:26Are you keeping count?
38:28With you, I count everything.
38:32A soft bite landed on my leg.
38:34He caught my calf and looked up.
38:37Focus.
38:39I'd focus on nothing else.
38:41His cool hands traveled higher, and my breath broke.
38:47Eyes on me, Rin.
38:49I want all of you tonight.
38:51You already have all of me.
38:53That earned the rare, slow smile I was learning to crave.
38:57He took his time, slow and thorough as always.
39:00By the end, I was boneless and grinning into the dark.
39:05The hateful people and days were behind me.
39:09The road ahead was going to be a happy one.
Comments