Lycan's Prey by Jessica Hall

Chapter 120

“Yeah, it’s just a long day,” he comments, passing me to head into the shower himself. Shaking off his strange mood, I quickly dress and lay down in bed. Yet, Soren climbs in bed; he still says nothing, just flicks the lamp off while I’m staring at the ceiling, unable to shake the feeling of dread tightening in my chest. Soren is next to me, his breathing steady, but I know he’s not asleep. There’s a tension in the air, an unspoken weight hanging between us, and I can feel it pulling us into a conversation neither of us seems ready to start.

I turn my head, watching the rise and fall of his chest, the lines. of his face softened in the dim light. He’s always so composed, so in control, but tonight there’s something different. A vulnerability that feels strange coming from him.

“Soren?” My voice is soft, hesitant, but it’s enough to break the silence.

He shifts slightly, turning to face me, his eyes searching mine. “Yeah?”

I take a deep breath, my fingers fidgeting with the edge of the blanket. “Are you okay? You’ve been… quiet tonight.”

He runs a hand through his hair, sighing softly. “I’m thinking about the council.”

I wait, giving him space to continue. He doesn’t usually open up easily, but tonight feels different. The silence stretches between us, thick with unsaid words.

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Chapter 120

always weighing lives against one another. But there are days. when

down like this. “You carry so much, but

smile tugging at his lips. “It’s not that simple, Bree. I’ve made mistakes–big ones. And they’ve cost me. I never should have vouched for Rhett, and now it’s caused this mess, I am worried it’s going to come back on me, on Max and you,” His voice falters, and I see the flicker of pain in his eyes. “My last wife… I didn’t mark her. I thought we had time. I kept putting it off, waiting for the

werewolf.”

instinctively, placing my hand on his chest, feeling the steady thump of

I never would have met you otherwise. I loved my wife, but…”

himself. “That’s why I can’t wait with you, Bree. I don’t want to risk it again. If anything were to happen to you…” His voice breaks, and I feel the weight of his fear pressing down on both of

something I’ve tried to avoid thinking about. But

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Chapter 120