“No, I keep them safe. That’s why I still stay around this small town.” I say, not meaning to sound as hostile as it comes out. Atti ignores or is used to my curt tone, because he doesn’t show any response.

“Something is changing. The witches are feeling it, be careful brother.” Atti pats my shoulder as he passes.

“I will.” I reply, watching the fireplace.

“Keep her safe and no sleeping with her. Not yet.” Atti tells me.

“No promises. She is going to be my mate after all.” I tell him, trying to keep the grin from my face.

“Mine too.” Atti says before he disappears.

Chapter Five

"Hey lady, wake up." A voice says as I groan mentally, I open my eyes to see the boy from last night kneeling in front of the sofa with his face close to mine. With his eyes open I can see they are a very bright shade of brown and I quickly sit up as he leans back holding that blanket tight around his waist.

"Hi." I say feeling awkward and I look him over. I was right thinking he can’t be more than eight as he has a young face, with messy black hair that looks like he dyed the tips blonde and a skinny frame.

"Thanks for helping me. I would be dead now if you didn't.” He tells me looking down at the floor and I just stare in silence.

“I'm guessing you know I'm a shifter. My uncle J is going to go ape when he finds me with a human." The boy drops his head down into his one hand and I hear a few sobs as he wipes away his tears.

"Hey, don't get upset. Look what's your name?" He looks up at me in confusion and I can see how truly upset he is. I have no idea if he has rules about telling humans, I mean me, about shifters.

"It's Freddy. You?" he says carefully, like I’m going to start screaming or attacking him like a crazy person. I guess a normal person might have that reaction to a shifter but honestly I don’t know why I’m not that shocked that’s there’s more than humans on earth.

"Winter. Right wolf boy or not, you need some clothes and food." I say as I get up, moving around him to my room while he watches me. I grab my old boyfriend’s shorts and top, I was going to throw out. I know they are going to be too big for him but the shorts have strings that he can tie up.

"Here, change into these while I cook. Is bacon and eggs alright?" I ask coming back into the room and handing him the clothes as he watches me carefully.

"Yes." He mutters, blushing a little, which makes me smile.