Lycan's Prey by Jessica Hall

Chapter 26

“Fine,” I murmur, my lips pressing into a tight line. It’s a reluctant surrender to Max’s hopeful gaze, one that might buy his father a moment’s peace. The boy’s energy is electric, his tiny feet barely touching the floor as he hops toward the door, a whirlwind of youthful exuberance and I rise giving in to the child.

“Thank you, I know he can sometimes be a handful.” King Soren’s words carry a weight, an acknowledgment that seems to see right through me.

I shake my head, brushing off his gratitude with a flicker of a smile that doesn’t quite reach my eyes. “I find him sweet, he’s a breath of fresh air,” I tell him, and it’s true. Max reminds me of the innocence I once had before life got its hands on me.

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~King Soren~

Throughout the entire drive to Brielle’s house, I can’t stop thinking about my son’s bizarre behavior and how taken he is with her. I find myself questioning her about her grandma, her time in town, and her plans for the future. The road is ribbon- like in the darkness, and the only sound is the soft purr of the car’s engine.

“So, your grandma is sick?” I ask, trying to sound casual.

“Yes, she’s been unwell for some time now,” Brielle replies, her voice heavy with concern.

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into her forehead and shadows under her eyes. I wonder how much of it is due to her

have you been in

Your

to stay here for a while?”

before answering, “Yes, for as long as I am needed.”

sense of unease, as if she knows something I don’t.

did you do before moving here?”

various places, mostly in the service

you originally from

answering, “Not exactly. I’ve lived

subject. “How did you find our town? Are

“Yes, everyone has been

to hear. And what about your work at the café?

nods enthusiastically, “I love it! The people are great, and I enjoy

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notice how nervous she gets when I press her for more information about

wonder if there’s more to her than

speak volumes about the hardships the grandmother must have faced over the years. “You live here?” I couldn’t help but ask, my eyes scanning the crumbling building with a mix of confusion and curiosity.

she can answer, I spot an elderly woman on the porch, her skin as wrinkled as the house itself, her eyes gazing vacantly into the distance. Her thin frame suggests that she has endured many struggles throughout her life. Max suddenly announces that he needs to

offers, quickly hopping out of the car. Before I can say anything, Max is already out of the car and running towards the house, his energetic

house and the frail old woman who struggles

you’re fine,” Brielle reassures

was getting up anyway,” the old woman insists, trying to rise from her chair. Brielle rushes to her side and attempts to

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Chapter 26