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.

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

Aubree choked out in a daze, her voice thick with confusion. When she looked up at

helplessness

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

‘I’ll have to fix that mistake,

gently wiped the sweat from Aubree’s forehead. “Don’t worry,” he murmured,

gentle yet unwavering, instantly

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

anything to eat all day.

had no appetite

touched her face. Her skin was ice–cold under his fingers. Not worrying was impossible, but he also knew he couldn’t simply talk

you like to rest a bit longer?” Bowen asked

“Okay” Aubree nodded.

the back of it. Aubree tightened her grip around his hand and said nothing. She just gazed up at him with shimmering eyes,

anywhere,”

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52 Mon, 14 JUL

Chapter 197