Lycan's Prey by Jessica Hall

Chapter 199

“I understand,” I finally say, my voice barely above a whisper. “I’ll make sure she’s never alone with him until we know she’s in control, but for now you need to get the fuck out.”

“This is why you wanted the staff gone.” Damian states.

“No, I wanted them gone because I don’t want anyone knowing I’ve changed her. Not until the wedding. Now get out your questions can wait.”

The weight of my words hangs heavy in the air. I can’t meet Damian’s eyes, my gaze fixed on Aubrey’s trembling form. Her face is contorted in pain, sweat beading on her brow. My heart aches, knowing I’m the cause of her suffering.

Damian sighs, his gaze drifting to Aubrey’s writhing form on the bed. The muscles in his jaw tighten, a mix of concern and resignation etched across his features. “I’ll handle the council and talk to Father,” he says, his voice hesitant. “I’ll let her mother know she is okay because she has been ringing me incessantly.”

I nod, but my thoughts are elsewhere, racing with the implications of what’s to come. The mark on Aubrey’s skin seems to pulse. My fingers absently trace the outline of my own matching mark.

has moved closer. “But for now, focus on

Chapter 199

agony leaves. “I know my love, I’m right here. I’m right here.” I murmur, biting into my wrist and once again forcing my

Aubrey

room and surely beyond; there comes a gradual ease. My screams turn into gasps and the

I’m too weak to respond but nod against

that death would be a welcome reprieve compared to this torment; everything suddenly stops. The pain recedes completely leaving behind a peculiar emptiness inside me. However long it took for me to transform completely was unclear as time held no meaning in darkness of torture, paralyzed by pain. Yet as I remain in that strange state of between, I feel like I can breathe

curtains is blinding,

races, pounding against my ribs like a caged animal seeking escape. The room tilts

a strand of hair from my face. The simple touch sends a jolt through my

Chapter 199