Chapter 51 Ava: Clayton's Departure

Clayton's shoulders stiffen, and he sighs. "You'll be safe as long as you stay within the pack," he says, his voice tight.

My heart skips a beat at his words.

"I'm going to have to go out on a quick trip," Clayton continues, and my eyes widen.

A trip? Where? And why?

The questions are burning on the tip of my tongue, but I bite them back, not wanting to draw attention to myself. Besides, I don't need to know.

Instead, I force a small smile and say, "I hope you have a safe trip."

Clayton nods, his expression softening as he meets my gaze. "Thank you, Ava."

For a moment, I think he's going to say more, but then he seems to think better of it. He takes a step towards me, and my heart rate picks up, my body tensing involuntarily.

"Can I have a goodbye kiss?" he asks, his voice low and rough.

I swallow hard, my mouth dry. A part of me wouldn't mind feeling his lips on mine again, knowing the passion that can erupt between us.

But a much larger part of me holds me back.

So instead of leaning in, I turn my head slightly, offering him my cheek. His lips brush against my skin, warm and soft, and I feel a shiver run down my spine despite myself.

As he pulls back, I can't help but notice the flicker of disappointment in his eyes, and I have to fight the urge to apologize.

smile

will." He taps my nose, his disappointment already hidden.

if it's hacked. I'll just get a new burner as soon

check up on you. Try staying inside. Rowan will be by this afternoon, and if you need to go anywhere, you guys

Without Clayton, it'll

say again, with a

* * *

The city is huge.

to the much smaller human city of White

step out of the car, my heart racing as I take it all in. Skyscrapers tower overhead, their glass facades glinting in the sunlight. The sidewalks are packed with people, all

overwhelming, the sheer size and energy of it all. I'm used to the quiet, the solitude of my little town.

scanning the crowd. He seems at ease, comfortable in

way," he says, guiding me towards a large department store. Its windows are filled with mannequins dressed in the

ceilings high and adorned

feel out of place in my simple jeans and t-shirt, even with the brand names on their labels—something I'd found excessive, but I'm learning that Clayton doesn't know the

through the aisles, and I steal glances at Rowan. He's different now, more relaxed and easy-going. During my

warm and friendly, a steady presence at my side. If I didn't already know, I never would have suspected him to

crowds make me nervous, the constant movement and noise setting my nerves on edge. But

are everywhere, mingling with humans. I'd noticed in White Peak and Cedarwood that they never

and

of Rowan, or is it

says, calm

make

prudent to get stronger so you don't need

The Novel will be updated daily. Come back and continue reading tomorrow, everyone!

Comments ()

0/255