Tangled in Moonlight: Unshifted (Ava and Lucas)

Chapter 113 Ava: A New Change

I want to believe Lucas. I want to believe that everything will be okay, that I'll come out of this stronger than before. But there's a part of me that's terrified of what's happening to me, of the changes that I can feel taking place inside my body.

Change is inevitable, Selene says, her voice gentle. But it doesn't have to be something to fear.

I know she's right, but it's hard to let go of the apprehension that's taken root in my gut.

I have a feeling Selene knows why I've been unconscious for so long, but I can't talk to her with Lucas here.

Lisa squeezes my hand, drawing my attention back to her. "We're here for you, Ave. Whatever you need."

I manage a small smile, grateful for her support. "Thanks, Lise. I don't know what I would do without you."

"Probably starve," she jokes, trying to lighten the mood. "Speaking of which, I'm going to go track down some of that liquid diet for you. Be right back."

She slips out of the room, leaving me alone with Lucas and Vanessa. Selene hops down from the bed, stretching languidly before padding over to the window. She seems content to give us some privacy, though I know she's still listening to every word.

Vanessa steps closer, her expression softening as she takes in the way Lucas is holding me. "Your body has been through a tremendous ordeal, Ava. It's going to take time to recover, both physically and emotionally. But you're strong. You'll get through this."

She smiles, reaching out to pat my leg through the blanket. "I'll be back to check on you later. You'll probably be asleep soon. I'll be here in the morning, and we can talk more then."

* * *

It takes three days until I'm strong enough to be discharged home.

like forever, but Dr. Beaumont assures me—and Lucas—that it's a miracle I'm going home so early. Having multiple giant meals of protein (rare steak being the food of choice) seems to have kick-started whatever magical shifter healing ability

and more fit than I

month, and Dr. Beaumont and Vanessa seem convinced I will

won't answer when I

Lucas won't leave so I can talk

I'm excited to be

You'll be staying

me go back to

poked his head into the room a few minutes earlier to ask Lisa if she could help

"I'm staying with Lisa."

looking frustrated and furious. He alternates death glares toward my best friend with an agitated frown in my direction. "I'll feel better if you're at the alpha lodge. You'll be closer to the hospital, and

down. "Are you trying to tell me you set my best friend

"No, of course not—"

ambulance can get to me at her apartment just fine.

"Still—"

if it makes you feel better, it doesn't make me feel better." Standing up for myself feels good. Better than I thought

"As my mate—"

and you are not my alpha. And even if you think I'm your mate, that connection has not been accepted

those words are from Selene, coaching me as she pretends to sleep

smug,

Hurt.

tries to tug at my heart, whisper

Good job, Ava.