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.

meals of protein (rare steak being the food

feel stronger and more fit than I was before I

full moon isn't for another month, and Dr. Beaumont and Vanessa seem convinced I will shift at that

answer when I ask

Lucas won't leave so I can talk

to be

You'll be staying at

won't let me go back to Lisa's

room a few minutes

"I'm staying with Lisa."

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 Vanessa has access in order to provide care.

but I wave her down. "Are you trying to tell

"No, of course not—"

at her apartment just fine. They did

"Still—"

feel better." Standing up for myself feels good. Better than I thought it would. Even facing

"As my mate—"

my alpha. And even if you

Selene, coaching me as she pretends to sleep

smug, and Lucas

Hurt.

to tug at my heart, whisper doubt in my mind. But I hold

Good job, Ava.