Tangled

95 Ava: Lisa (II)

A light tapping at my door pulls us out of our giggling.

“Come in,” I call out, wiping the last of my tears away. I’m sure my eyes are red and puffy, but I can’t find it in Sᴇaʀch Thᴇ FɪndNøvel.ɴet website on Gøøglᴇ to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.

me to care.

Dr. Beaumont steps into the room, her smile gentle as she takes in the sight of us huddled together on the bed. “Well now, isn’t this a pretty picture?”

For the past few days, Dr. Beaumont has been

thorough in my care. I’ve come to enjoy her visits, even if they’re just for work. She’s respectful to both nurses and patients, and doesn’t treat me with the awed deference like some of the nurses do.

Everyone knows I’m their alpha’s fated mate, even the humans. Few seem to understand that we aren’t in a

relationship, though.

It is interesting to see how many humans think of Lucas as ‘their‘ alpha, though. I’m used to a distinct difference between shifter and human, even in the Aspen territory. Here, there are humans working alongside shifters, and they even interact with each

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95 Ava Lisa (II)

other. Just yesterday I heard a shifter nurse talking to a human doctor about her mate’s desires for shifted

sex–something I’ve known about but never heard talked about–and the human hadn’t been scandalized.

She’d even asked questions.

Maybe she watches the same show Selene does. TV is great for normalizing things.

“Lisa, this is Dr. Beaumont. She’s been taking care of me.” I introduce them, watching as they shake hands.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Lisa.” Dr. Beaumont’s eyes twinkle. “I must say, a little company has really helped

Ava here look a

eyes are still puffy and swollen, and hurt a little when I blink. Still–having Lisa

It’s helped.

A lot.

for taking such good care of her,” Lisa says earnestly, like an older sister more

And even if it wasn’t…” She leans in conspiratorially. “No

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Ava Lisa (II)

no when it comes to Ava’s care.

hands here.”

of everything, and it’s not a secret. Still, hearing it stated so plainly

really cares about you, you know,” Dr. Beaumont continues, her voice softening.

worried.”

idea of Lucas caring so much. But another part, the part that’s still raw and hurting

I manage finally. “I just… it’s

in understanding. “Fated mate bonds always are. But from what I’ve seen, the two of you have something special. Don’t let

my hand, offering silent support. She knows better than anyone how conflicted I am about Lucas, about

and see how you were doing” Dr. Beaumont straightens slinning

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Ava: Lisa (II)

day to make sure everything’s doing well. Sometimes, the wound heals too quickly and traps infection within, causing

on.”

the recliner by my bed, giving us space, but

shoulders, her brow

she murmurs, tracing a finger along what I assume must be a scar. “These have healed remarkably well, Ava. They’re a bit raised and discolored, but that’s to be expected with such deep wounds. They might

scars, these permanent reminders of what Todd did to me, makes my skin crawl. I don’t want any mark of

Ava: Lisa (II)

abdomen, her eyebrows climbing even higher. “And these are nearly healed as well. At this rate, I’d say you’ll be fully recovered by tomorrow.” She glances up at me, curiosity bright in her eyes. “Is this normal for you, Ava? Do you usually heal this quickly? I

hidden behind my denial. “No,” I admit softly. “I’ve always healed normally.” There’s no reason to explain Selene’s existence to anyone here. I still haven’t spoken to Lucas about her,

the future, if we can

aren’t there yet.

face clouds with confusion,

“Well, regardless, this is excellent news. You’re well on your

across her face. “That’s great! You can come stay with me, Ave. Your overprotective alpha has

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thus

hotel. It’ll be