Tangled in Moonlight: Unshifted novel Chapter 146

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

146 Ava: Without His Knowledge

warmth disappears with him.

I pace across the floor, my arms wrapped around my middle, hugging myself as if that’ll hold all the broken pieces inside of me together.

Mom’s awake.

Lisa’s gone.

Vampires attacked.

Sister Miriam’s trying to get in touch with me.

My father might be hiding in a city of vampires.

It’s a lot to think through. To process.

You’re going to wear a hole through the floor. She watches me pace, her attention distracted from her show. Why don’t you summon Sister Miriam and see if you can get some answers? That might help you.

I pause mid–step, thinking about Lucas. About the baby steps we managed today.

“I can’t.”

Why not? Isn’t that what you wanted to do?

“Yes. No. I don’t know.” I rake a hand through my hair,

frustration huhhling un inside mo

ingida ma “It’s not that

16:08

3/8

146 Ava: Without His Knowledge…

simple.”

Because of Lucas. 

It’s not a question. Selene’s too perceptive for that. She sees right through me.

I groan, sinking back onto the couch. “I don’t want to lose his trust by going behind his back. But I can’t risk Lisa’s life over him, either.”

So, tell him everything. 

My voice cracks. “What if he looks at me differently? What if he doesn’t want me anymore?”

Selene is quiet for a long moment. Then she nudges my leg with her nose, her fur soft against my skin. He could have given up on you a long time ago. 

1

She sounds half–strangled to even admit it, and I laugh

Lucas makes you happy. I want you to be happy. Selene’s words are simple, but my heart fills.

Is your mate bond based on fate or choice?

Then he is your chosen mate, even more than he’s your 

fated one.

You can’t build a relationship on secrets and lies. But it’s your choice. I will be here, regardless. 

I’m actually half–convinced it is the wrong decision.

Selene sneezes beside me. It’s awful. Like burning dust and a dead fly.