The Queen They Buried

She had just woken up, her body still weak and reeling from such a penfound shock. She staggered forward, unable to steady herself. The vers underground garage replayed vividly is her Hike a relentless nightmare,

After starting a new life, she completely severed ties with the Wilson family And, as much at she hated to admit it, the only person whose mani could truly bring her peace and reassurance was undoubtedly Bowen,

Bowen strode forward swiftly, catching her in his arms with lightning relieves in one fluid motion, he potted her tightly against his chest.

Bowen placed his hand on Aubree’s waist and pulled her forcefully into his embrace.

He couldn’t even bear to imagine what would have happened if he had arrived just a moment later today. He might have lost Aubred forever.

“It was my fault, Bowen thought, ‘Gareth must have resorted to desperate measures, and I failed to keep her safe

“Bowen Aubree choked out, burying her face in his shoulder. Her fingers clung desperately to his shirt as tears streamed down her face.

It was rare for Aubree to show such vulnerability: As Bowen felt the warmth of her tears soaking through his shoulder, his heart clenched as if squeezed by an invisible fist. The pain was almost unbearable.

“It’s over now. You’re safe,” Bowen murmured, pressing a gentle kiss to Aubree’s hair, His hand came to rest on Aubree’s back, gently patting in slow, steadyrhythms, like soothing a frightened child.

His voice was laced with exhaustion.

the hospital, Bowen had been wound tight as a colled spring, his shirt rumpled, those always perfect

someone” Aubree choked out in a daze, her voice thick with confusion. When

helplessness

said, “He’s alive. You acted in self–defense.

glint flashed in Bowen’s eyes. ‘I’ll have to fix that mistake, he thought, “But right

sweat from Aubree’s forehead. “Don’t worry,” he murmured, “I’ve

voice was gentle yet unwavering, instantly putting her at

met Bowen’s deep eyes. She nodded vigorously, her eyes glistening with

all

weakly. She had no appetite

reached out and touched her face. Her skin was ice–cold under his fingers. Not worrying was impossible, but

to rest a bit

“Okay” Aubree nodded.

tucked her in. He moved to withdraw his hand when a soh, gentle touch settled on the back of it. Aubree tightened her

anywhere,” Bowen reassured

1/2

52 Mon, 14 JUL

Chapter 197