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.

force another smile and say,

He taps my nose, his disappointment already hidden. "Set up your phone.

just get a new burner as soon as

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

faster. Without Clayton, it'll probably be easier

I say again, with a

* * *

The city is huge.

White Peak—well, you can't really compare

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 rushing to their

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

scanning the crowd. He seems at ease, comfortable in this urban

me towards a large department store. Its windows are filled with mannequins

are polished marble, the ceilings high and adorned with glittering chandeliers. The air is perfumed with

that Clayton doesn't know the meaning of frugal—but Rowan doesn't seem to notice. He's too busy keeping an eye on our surroundings,

glances at Rowan. He's different now, more relaxed and easy-going.

He's just Rowan, warm and friendly, a steady presence at my side. If

me nervous, the constant movement and noise setting my nerves on edge. But with Rowan here, I feel

noticed in White Peak and Cedarwood that they never looked twice

glance toward me and scent the

presence of Rowan, or

can smell your power, Selene says, calm as ever. You no longer

to make

prudent to get stronger so

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