Tangled in Moonlight: Unshifted (Ava and Lucas)

Chapter 196 Ava: History of Witches

She is a good person, Selene whispers.

No shit.

I know that already.

Mrs. Elkins is the one who took me in when I was lost and desperate to start anew.

But Mrs. Elkins is also here, knowing something about the necklace that helped hide my powers.

How much did she know about me? How much did she hide?

My stomach churns with the bitter feelings of betrayal. "You knew about me all along, didn't you?"

"No." Mrs. Elkins stops walking, concern crossing her face. "I knew you were a shifter, of course. I've seen more than one rogue in my life, looking for a new start. You were so lost, so scared. I had to help you."

"Why?" There's a part of my mind that immediately throws in unlikely scenarios, like Mrs. Elkins laughing behind my back over my naivete and ignorance.

But I know Mrs. Elkins.

That's not the kind of person she is.

So I shove it down, squashing it beneath a mental heel with ruthless efficiency.

It's my paranoia trying to take over again. Just like it did every time Lucas tried to give me any bit of attention or care.

I need to

a story, if you

sit down," I offer, motioning toward

detail lets her through with no grumbling, though their eyes never leave her. It's somewhat amusing to see them so on edge over an elderly lady who spends her day in a bookstore, gossiping with Cedarwood residents and

it's a good thing that they

easing herself onto the bench beside me with a soft groan. She places her parcel next to her and gives me a wry smile. "I'm getting too old

back, but it feels strained. My mind is a whirlwind of conflicting thoughts and emotions. I want to trust Mrs. Elkins, to believe in the genuine care she's always shown me,

her, Ava, Selene

take a deep breath, forcing myself to focus on the present moment. Mrs. Elkins studies me for a long moment before

how much do you know

off guard. "Witches? They're not real." The words tumble out automatically, a knee-jerk response.

me with that calm gaze of hers. "Are you sure about

I shake my head.

hadn't really known about

it's no surprise you think they aren't real. The packs don't talk about them.

magicians different?" I ask, curiosity piqued

But the history of

them with a stern look. "Now, now. Let's not pass judgment before we've even heard the whole

turns back to me, her

time went on, many witches were threatened by the

drawn in despite

Mrs. Elkins says quietly. "By humans and supernaturals alike. This was centuries ago, mind you, but it left deep scars. Only whispers of their

why?" I ask, troubled by the implications. "If

of them were innocent," Mrs. Elkins agrees. "But there were those who did terrible things. In the end, the innocence of most didn't change