He had feared this day would come—that instinct would turn, that Bella would be torn apart. And yet, here she was, whole, her trust vindicated in the most impossible way. The lions pressed against her, purring deep vibrations that shook the ground.
They curled close, rubbing their faces against hers, their great bodies forming a protective circle. Bella lay down among them, as though no time had passed at all. Ethan stepped forward, his voice trembling. “Easy, girl,” he whispered, though he knew Bella didn’t need reassurance. She had found her place again, the one taken from her years ago.