Tangled in Moonlight: Unshifted (Ava and Lucas)

Chapter 51

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.

I force another smile and

nose, his disappointment already hidden. "Set

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

keep an eye on you and check up on you. Try staying inside. Rowan will be by this afternoon, and if you

faster. Without Clayton, it'll probably be easier for

say again, with a smile.

* * *

The city is huge.

of White Peak—well, you can't

in the sunlight. The sidewalks are packed with people, all rushing to

energy of it all. I'm used to the quiet, the solitude of my

me, his eyes scanning the crowd. He seems at ease, comfortable in

Its windows are filled with mannequins dressed in the latest fashions, and I can't help but stare as we

adorned

that Clayton doesn't know the meaning of frugal—but Rowan

steal glances at Rowan. He's different now, more relaxed and

us. He's just Rowan, warm and friendly, a steady presence at my side. If I didn't already know, I never

appreciate his company, especially in a place like this. The crowds make me nervous, the constant movement

and Cedarwood that they never looked twice at me,

glance toward me and scent the air as I

it the presence of Rowan,

your power, Selene says, calm

going to make hiding a lot

prudent to get stronger so you

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