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
Ava: Without His Knowledge
disappears with
the floor, my arms wrapped around my middle, hugging myself as
Mom’s awake.
Lisa’s gone.
Vampires attacked.
to get in touch with me.
might be hiding in a
think through. To
her show. Why don’t you summon Sister Miriam and see if you can get some answers? That
About the baby steps we managed today.
“I can’t.”
not? Isn’t that what you wanted to
I don’t know.” I rake a hand through
un inside
“It’s not
16:08
3/8
Without His Knowledge…
simple.”
Because of Lucas.
a question. Selene’s too perceptive for that. She sees right through me.
his trust by going behind his
him everything.
at me differently? What if he doesn’t
for a long moment. Then she nudges my leg with her nose, her fur soft against my skin. He could have
1
admit it, and I
She’s
nothing like
you to be happy. Selene’s words are simple, but my heart
call him my ex–fated.”
Without His
your mate bond based on fate
tongue
I think
insistently tugging us together, it
want
It’s just Lucas.
How he came for me. How he’s been
I run from his
deep in my heart. Our
to be
is your chosen mate, even more than he’s
fated one.
“But what if-”
and lies. But it’s your choice.
so, it feels like a betrayal to put my bond
Lisa’s life.
it’s the wrong decision.
half–convinced it is
Ava: Without His Knowledge.
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