146 Ava: Without His Knowledge…
146 Ava: Without His Knowledge…
Lucas watches me with concern and care, but all I can say is, “Oh.”
Some part of me had expected Mom to stay in a coma forever. Or die.
I didn’t think about her much. Ignoring her existence is easier than dealing with–well, everything.
“I would have to return to Blackwood in order to question her.” Every word is careful and measured, as though he’s not sure how I’m going to respond.
He doesn’t invite me to go. I’m not sure I want to. He probably realizes that.
Selene glances toward us, her ears flicking as she listens.
“I don’t think that’s the best idea. Your pack needs you here. They need to see their alpha.” I’m hesitant to speak up, but Selene’s watchful gaze gives me a little confidence. “Alpha Clayton is still there, isn’t he? I think he should lead the interrogation.”
It’s our first time saying his name between us and I
146 Ava: Without His Knowledge…
can feel Lucas‘ muscles tense.
Trying to give him a little comfort, I grab his hand, threading our fingers together. A silent message that I’m still here. That I’ve already made my choice.
My heart hurts when I realize how little I’ve really thought about the damage I’ve done to this man.
He relaxes, drawing me closer, his thumb rubbing against the back of my hand. “You’re right. I’ll call him.”
It’s amazing how warm my heart feels, knowing that I’ve given Lucas a little peace of mind, with a hint of my heart.
I’ve wasted so much time worrying about his
intentions. Worrying about being trapped in a gilded
cage.
Being brave is easier than I thought it would be.
He brings our joined hands to his lips, pressing a gentle kiss against them. “I have to meet with Kellan and discuss everything, but I’ll keep you updated. I
promise.”
***
The front door closes with a soft click, and Lucas‘
10:06
Without His Knowledge
with
hugging myself as if that’ll
Mom’s awake.
Lisa’s gone.
Vampires attacked.
to get in
in
a lot to think through.
her attention distracted from her show. Why don’t you summon Sister Miriam and see if you can get
about Lucas. About the baby steps we
“I can’t.”
not? Isn’t that what you wanted
I don’t know.” I rake
huhhling un
“It’s not
16:08
3/8
Without His Knowledge…
simple.”
Because of Lucas.
perceptive for
by
tell him
cracks. “What if he looks at me differently? What if he doesn’t want me anymore?”
a long moment. Then she nudges my leg with her nose, her fur soft against my skin.
1
admit it,
She’s not wrong.
despite everything. He’s nothing like my parents.
to be happy.
always call him
Without His Knowledge…
your mate bond based on fate
the tip of my tongue to say fate, of course. But
I think back.
insistently tugging us
I want to connect
It’s just Lucas.
came
how much I run from
in my heart. Our
be with
your chosen mate, even more
fated one.
“But what if-”
can’t build a relationship on secrets and lies. But it’s your choice. I will be
so, it feels like a betrayal to put my bond with
Lisa’s life.
it’s the wrong
half–convinced it is the
Ava: Without His Knowledge.
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