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
with him.
the floor, my arms wrapped around my middle, hugging myself as
Mom’s awake.
Lisa’s gone.
Vampires attacked.
to get in touch with
father might be hiding in a city of vampires.
a lot to think through. To process.
to wear a hole through the 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 might help
about Lucas. About the baby
“I can’t.”
what
I don’t know.” I rake
un inside mo
ma “It’s
16:08
3/8
Ava: Without
simple.”
Because of Lucas.
for that. She sees right through
want to lose his trust by going behind his back. But I can’t risk Lisa’s life over him,
him everything.
cracks. “What if he looks at me differently? What if he doesn’t want me
for a long moment. Then she nudges my leg with her nose, her fur soft against my skin. He could
1
admit it,
little. She’s
everything. He’s nothing like my
happy. I want you to be happy. Selene’s words are simple, but my
him my ex–fated.”
Ava: Without His Knowledge…
based on fate or choice?
tongue to say fate, of course.
I think
tugging us together, it
want to connect
It’s just Lucas.
cares. How he came for
no matter how much I run
in my heart. Our fated bond drives
be with
chosen mate, even
fated one.
“But what if-”
But it’s your choice. I will be
betrayal to put my bond with
over Lisa’s life.
the
it is the wrong
Without His Knowledge.
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