Tangled

Chapter 50

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

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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.

I can’t help but notice the flicker of disappointment in his eyes, and I have to fight

another smile and say, “Be

already hidden. “Set up your phone. Call me when you

it’s hacked. I’ll just

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

together.”

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Ava: Clayton’s

faster. Without Clayton, it’ll probably be easier

say again, with a smile. “Thank

***

city is

the much smaller human city of White Peak–well, you can’t really compare them. They’re

different worlds.

their glass facades glinting in the sunlight.

overwhelming, the sheer size and energy of it all. I’m used to the quiet, the

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

says, guiding me towards a large

windows are filled with

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378

Ava: Clayton’s Departure

the latest fashions, and I can’t help but stare as we

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

feel out of place in my simple jeans and t–shirt, even with the brand names on their labels–something I’d found excessive, but I’m learning 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, his gaze sharp

through the aisles, and I steal glances at Rowan. He’s different now, more relaxed. and easy–going. During my heat,

my side. If I

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

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Ava: Clayton’s

noise setting my nerves on edge. But with Rowan here, I feel safer,

everywhere, mingling with humans. I’d noticed in White Peak and Cedarwood that they never looked twice at me,

and scent the air as I

pass.

presence of Rowan, or is it

calm as ever. You no longer

going to make hiding

would be more prudent to get stronger so you don’t

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