Tangled

Unshift 282

Unshift 282

282 Ava: A Meeting of Allies

Dr. Blackwell-or, as Lisa calls him, the Grand Sage-holds out his hand for a very human handshake, his eyes twinkling in my direction. "It is good to finally meet you, Ava Grey. I've heard so much about you" From who?

"Hello," I offer cautiously, despite knowing he's one of the good ones. His handshake is firm, event if his hand is as small as a child's.

"It will be good for magic to flourish once again," he continues, and I blink.

"Excuse me?"

Dr. Blackwell's words hang in the air, and I'm not sure how to respond. Magic flourishing? What does that even mean? Before I can formulate a coherent question, Kellan clears his throat.

"I apologize for the delay in bringing Dr. Blackwell," he says, his voice oddly stiff.

Lisa's reply is equally stilted. "It's okay."

Their awkward exchange is so unnatural that I have to fake a cough to hide my amused smile. Despite the gravity of our situation, it's almost comical to see them dance around each other like this.

His expression turns serious as he continues. "I was discussing recent events with Dr. Blackwell. The Westwood Pack is caught in the middle of an incredible war that will change our world." Everyone nods solemnly; there's no surprise here.

Still, my stomach twists with anxiety as we put it into words.

he was not the only one to

She did mention Ryder, she must be thinking of Mia and Chloe and their betrayal. Kellan places his hands on her shoulders,

must have already been briefed on the situation here. The healer just sighs, looking as though she's aged ten years since

the other hand, turns his attention to Lisa. "Speaking of trust,

expression neutral as everyone's gaze flicks between Lisa and

Ava: A Meeting of

trustworthy, I state firmly,

his head. "Her trustworthiness isn't the issue, but

a deep breath, trying to calm the frustration bubbling in my veins. "The number of people we can truly trust is already low. We shouldn't alienate Lisa

As he continues, Lisa leans back against him. "As for the situation within the Westwood Pack since Lucas has been... incapacitated as alpha... He pauses, and I feel my heart clench at the mention of Lucas. "It's been almost impossible to keep alpha challenges at bay. It's only going to

Alpha challenges.

from my face. Lucas is in no shape to be

After everything Lucas has done for his pack, after risking his life to save others... Now, he has to

steady

Shit.

ried!

are so many theories, the doctors are in knots.

possible," Dr. Blackwell says, unperturbed as several eyes

kind of curse?

I am aware of

them?" I ask,