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
with
arms wrapped around my middle, hugging myself as
Mom’s awake.
Lisa’s gone.
Vampires attacked.
get in touch with me.
might be hiding in a
think
her show. Why don’t you summon Sister Miriam and see if you can get some answers?
thinking about Lucas. About the baby steps we managed today.
“I can’t.”
that what you
know.” I rake a hand through my
un inside
“It’s not that
16:08
3/8
Without His Knowledge…
simple.”
Because of Lucas.
question. Selene’s too perceptive for that. She sees
by going behind his back. But I can’t
tell him
he looks at me
with her nose, her fur soft against my skin. He could have given up on you a long time ago.
1
even admit it,
She’s not
still here, despite everything. He’s nothing like my parents. My
be happy. Selene’s words are simple, but my heart fills.
him my
Ava: Without His Knowledge…
mate bond based on fate
the tip of my tongue to say fate, of course. But
think
bond insistently tugging us
reason I want to
It’s just Lucas.
he cares. How he came for me.
no matter how much I run
Our fated bond drives us together,
to be
chosen mate,
fated one.
“But what if-”
build a relationship on secrets and lies. But
feels like a betrayal to put my bond with
Lisa’s life.
it’s the
it is
Ava: Without
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