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
Mom’s awake.
Lisa’s gone.
Vampires attacked.
to get in touch
hiding in a city of
a lot to think through. To process.
floor. She watches me pace, her attention distracted from her show. Why don’t you summon Sister Miriam and see if you can get some answers? That
About the baby steps we
“I can’t.”
that what you wanted
rake a hand through my hair,
huhhling un inside mo
ma “It’s
16:08
3/8
Ava: Without His Knowledge…
simple.”
Because of Lucas.
Selene’s too perceptive for
don’t want to lose his trust by going behind his back.
him
he looks at me differently? What if
moment. Then she nudges my leg with her nose, her fur soft
1
to even admit
little. She’s not
still here, despite everything. He’s nothing
be happy. Selene’s
call him
Ava: Without His
based on
on the tip of my tongue to say fate, of course.
I think back.
tugging us
reason I want to connect with him.
It’s just Lucas.
How he came
matter how much I run from his feelings.
the truth deep in my heart. Our fated bond drives us together,
to be
he is your chosen mate, even more than he’s your
fated one.
“But what if-”
can’t build a relationship on secrets and lies. But it’s your choice. I will be here,
a betrayal to put my bond
Lisa’s life.
it’s the wrong
half–convinced it is the wrong
Without His Knowledge.
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