Bonds

Chapter 147

-Maya’s POV-

The same horrifying nightmare had been plaguing me for the past three days. It always started the same way – Alex. His touch was electric, sending shivers down my spine and awakening a fire within me that I had almost forgotten existed. But then, in a horrifying twist, his face would morph into Ivan’s, his touch turning repulsive, making my skin crawl. I’d wake up with a gasp, heart pounding against my ribs, the sheets tangled around me damp with sweat.

The thought of Ivan’s touch, his kisses, filled me with a sickening dread. Every moment I had spent with him burned into my memory. I just wanted everything to be over, to erase that part of my life.

–

Adding to the turmoil within me was the strange absence of Alex. It had been five days since I’d last seen him. Every time I called, his response remained the same a monotonous reassurance that he was fine, dealing with something, and would be back soon, laced with a heavy dose of “I miss you so much.” But the words rang hollow, devoid of the warmth and sincerity I was accustomed to.

With a sigh that seemed to carry the weight of the world, I threw off the covers and dragged myself out of bed. The twins‘ room was my first stop. They were both fast asleep, but the sight that greeted me sent a pang of worry through my heart. Usually, they were curled up together, a testament to their unbreakable bond. Today, however, Ivy occupied one corner of the bed, Nate the other. Since I had introduced them to Alex, this had become the new normal. It seemed they had adopted opposing stances on accepting him into their lives. Another sigh escaped my lips as I left the room, their unspoken rejection adding to the burden I already carried.

The familiar serenity of the lake beckoned, and I found myself drawn to its calming presence. Reaching the grassy bank, I sank down, the cool grass a welcome contrast to the turmoil within me. Closing my eyes, I reached out with my mind, the silent call echoing through the depths of my being.

“Hey,” my voice emerged as a hesitant whisper.

A comforting presence filled my mind, her voice as familiar as my own heartbeat. “Hey, Amaya,” She greeted me, but a beat of silence followed her words, then a question laced with concern, “He’ll be back soon. He won’t abandon us again.”

A flicker of hope sparked within me, but it was quickly extinguished by the lingering voice of doubt. I stared down at the sparkling diamond ring nestled in my hand, a constant reminder of the promise that hung in the balance.

Ivan’s taunts echoed in the recesses of my mind, his cruel words from the time of my kidnapping. I desperately clung to the belief that they were nothing but manipulations, but lately, his words had gained a disturbing power. Especially with the nightmare feeding the insecurities they ignited.

“Do you think I’m not a likeable person?” the question tumbled out of my lips, an echo of the doubt gnawing at my soul.

My wolf’s amusement resonated within me,,mth

that chased away the cold tendrils of self–doubt. Amaya, she chides ge

and while that might not be the most practical approach in every situation, it makes you who you are. Anyone who has a heart can understand the sacrifices love demands. Love is the very essence of life, Amaya.

unwavering belief in me, her unwavering confidence

you,” I whispered, the words heavy with gratitude.

a

closed my eyes, the gentle lapping of the water a soothing melody against the backdrop of the chirping birds. The weight of the past few days may

I had to believe it.

moment longer, the cool air calming the storm within me. With a sigh, I turned and headed back towards the house, the familiar weight of the unanswered questions settling on my shoulders. Sleep, a precious commodity these past few days, seemed like a distant dream. Nevertheless, I knew I

into bed, my mind inevitably drifted back to the nightmare. The beginning, the part that had initially seduced me, played on repeat. The way

existed.

was almost intoxicating and before I knew it, my hands slipped between my legs.

nodded. He gave me a smile that did nothing to cover up the lust in his gaze

ICH

to the headboard. Then I realized that this

coming from somewhere else. “When I tell you to come, I want you to think of

1/2

Chapter 147

I would never get enough of him. ” Do

“Yes,” I breathed.

+5

already soaked. I tried to push myself towards him, I needed more. He didn’t answer me, taking things

I gasped, “Alex.”

look, and I lost all my breath. “You will take what I give you,” he whispered, a glint in his eyes as he stood up. “You know why Amaya?” He asked as he took off his belt, “Because you are mine.” Then before I could process it, he ripped my pants off and buried his face between

inside me. “Please, Alex,” I begged

a second sooner

growled, licking his lips. I nodded, my