My Second Chance Mate is a Barbarian (Sera and Fenris) novel Chapter 411

411 /526

Nadia

Why do I always have to be the target of your anger? Why can't you just tell me what's really going on instead of guilting me? But I kept those thoughts locked down tight, saying nothing.

"I... it's fine," I finally said, hearing the exhaustion in my own voice.

Lyra went quiet for a long moment. "Thank you," she said softly.

I sighed and rubbed my eyes. "You're welcome." The words felt strange on my tongue, forced.

There was another long pause before Lyra spoke again. "Will I see you soon?"

I nodded, as if she could see me. "I'll come by before work tomorrow morning."

"Okay..."

We hung in the silence a moment longer, neither of us sure how to close this call. Finally, Lyra took a breath. "Goodnight, cupcake," she said, her voice tender. "I love you."

Something about it felt off, and for a moment I couldn't quite place why. I was quiet a beat too long before responding. "I love you too."

It was the truth, no matter how bad things had gotten in my own family. I couldn't imagine not loving Lyra, even with everything happening around me.

The call ended, and I was left staring at the blank screen, my mind still reeling. I shook my head and stood, mechanically going through my night routine. Brushing my teeth. Washing my face. Changing into pajamas.