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
disappears with
middle, hugging myself
Mom’s awake.
Lisa’s gone.
Vampires attacked.
to get
be hiding in a city
to think through.
watches me pace, her attention distracted from her show. Why don’t you summon Sister Miriam and
thinking about Lucas. About the baby
“I can’t.”
that what you
don’t know.” I rake a hand
un
“It’s not
16:08
3/8
Without His Knowledge…
simple.”
Because of Lucas.
a question. Selene’s too perceptive for that. She sees right
couch. “I don’t want to lose his trust by going behind his back. But I can’t risk
him
he looks at me differently? What if he
her fur soft against my skin. He could have given up
1
half–strangled to even admit it, and I
She’s not
He’s nothing like my parents. My
makes you happy. I want you to be happy. Selene’s words are simple, but my heart fills.
always call him
Without
your mate bond based on fate
my tongue to
I think
tugging us together,
want to
It’s just Lucas.
cares. How he came for me.
no matter how much I
Our fated bond drives us together, but it’s not why I
be
chosen mate,
fated one.
“But what if-”
But it’s your choice. I
a betrayal to put my
Lisa’s
it’s the wrong decision.
it is the wrong decision.
Without His
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