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
disappears with
wrapped around my middle, hugging myself as if that’ll hold all the broken
Mom’s awake.
Lisa’s gone.
Vampires attacked.
trying to get in
might be hiding in
a lot to think
attention distracted from her show.
About
“I can’t.”
not? Isn’t that what you wanted
No. I don’t know.” I rake a
un
“It’s not
16:08
3/8
Without His Knowledge…
simple.”
Because of Lucas.
not a question. Selene’s too perceptive for that. She
groan, sinking back onto the couch. “I don’t want to lose his trust by going behind his back. But I can’t risk Lisa’s life over him,
tell him
voice cracks. “What if he looks at me differently?
moment. Then she nudges my leg with her nose, her fur soft against my skin. He could have given up on you a long time ago.
1
to even admit it, and I
little. She’s
still here, despite everything. He’s nothing
want you to be happy. Selene’s words are simple, but my heart
always call him my ex–fated.”
Without
mate bond based on fate or choice?
the tip of my tongue
I think
our bond insistently tugging
want to connect
It’s just Lucas.
How he came for
much I run
my heart. Our fated bond drives us together, but it’s
to be with
your chosen mate, even more
fated one.
“But what if-”
lies. But it’s your choice. I will be
feels like a betrayal to put my bond with
over Lisa’s
the wrong decision.
actually half–convinced it is the wrong decision.
Ava: Without His Knowledge.
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