Chapter 14

Victoria Rosa's expression softens with understanding. She reaches across the island and pats my hand, her touch motherly and comforting. "Of course, Victoria. Whatever makes you comfortable." She turns back to her cooking, and soon places a plate in front of me loaded with fluffy scrambled eggs, bacon, and fresh fruit. "Thank you," I say, suddenly realizing how hungry I am. "It looks amazing." "Eat up," she encourages. "You'll need your strength in this house." Something in her tone makes me pause with my fork halfway to my mouth. "What do you mean by that?" Rosa sighs, leaning against the counter. "Being an Alpha's mate isn't easy, Victoria. Especially not Leo's. He's powerful, stubborn, and used to getting his own way. But he's also fiercely loyal and protective of what's his." She emphasizes the last word meaningfully. "I'm not sure I know how to be what he needs," I admit, the confession slipping out before I can stop it. Rosa's face softens. "Oh, honey. You don't need to be anyth