“I’ve a feeling one of ours was telling stories. We’ll continue to look for the culprit, but haven’t yet been able to find out who or when.” Qusay looked to Donovan, who was massaging his temples as he thought. “I was to tell you this and leave.” He paused for a moment. “But you’ve been my friend for many years—perhaps you’d like to call that a debt?”

“Yes.” Donovan perked up a little.

“Then I’ll tell you two things before I leave. First, don’t go after Bhrunyz until you’ve found the brooch. He’s built for killing the most powerful supernaturals and would challenge even our best fighters. If you see him and he attacks you, run.”

“We’ll do just that.”

“This second piece may not be my place, but I say it because of the friendship that I hope to keep.”

“Please,” Donovan said. “You may speak freely.”

“I think you’ve been away too long,” Qusay said. “Bhrunyz is being controlled by one of your own. You’ve got problems, and they won’t get better unless you decide what you really want. It’s been too many years of only popping in when you had a day or two to yourself or when there was a crisis. I tried to tell you it was going to cost you, but you didn’t pay any heed.”

It was funny how everyone knew Donovan was doing too much, and yet he was a little clueless.

“You did, but I was too busy to listen. I have the Council to think of,” Donovan said.

“And your pack. And now, your mate. You have to make a choice soon, Donovan, or you risk losing everything.” It annoyed me that Qusay put me on the list. I was supposed to be an asset to Donovan, not another burden.

“Maybe.” Donovan sighed. “We’d better get back to the stronghold.” He took off his robe and threw it at Qusay before shifting.

I caressed my robe for a second, wondering if I could get away with running back in human form, but I’d slow us down too much. I was going to have to give it back. Plus, it was rude to keep it when it hadn’t been offered that way.

“I’ll have it sent to you.”

I met Qusay’s gaze. “Really?”

“Yes. It’s been a while since I made someone happy with something so small. I would be remiss if I took it from you.” He held out a hand. “Go. It’ll be waiting for you when you get back to the stronghold.”

I bit back a thank-you and slid it off my shoulders. “It is lovely.”

“Indeed.” And with a wave of his hand, the robe disappeared. “As are you.”