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 him.
floor, my arms wrapped around my middle, hugging myself as if that’ll hold all the broken
Mom’s awake.
Lisa’s gone.
Vampires attacked.
get in touch with
hiding in a
lot to think through. To process.
attention distracted from her show. Why don’t you
about Lucas. About the baby steps we
“I can’t.”
not? Isn’t that what you
I don’t know.” I rake
un inside mo
“It’s not that
16:08
3/8
Without
simple.”
Because of Lucas.
perceptive for that.
onto the couch. “I don’t want to lose his trust by going behind his
tell him everything.
me differently? What if he doesn’t want
a long moment. Then she nudges my leg with her nose, her fur soft
1
sounds half–strangled to even admit it, and I laugh
little. She’s not
nothing like my parents.
happy. I want you to be happy. Selene’s words are simple, but my
always call him my
Ava: Without
mate bond based on fate or choice?
the tip of my tongue
I think back.
tugging
the reason I want to
It’s just Lucas.
cares. How he came
much I run from his feelings.
I decide, feeling the truth deep in my heart. Our fated bond drives us together, but it’s not why
be with
is your chosen mate, even more than
fated one.
“But what if-”
and lies. But it’s your choice. I will be
a betrayal
Lisa’s
it’s the wrong decision.
is the
Without His
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