“Yes, I’m sure. That and I’m still not fully recuperated from being in control of my savage for so long.”
“Don’t forget to mention being pregnant while in your controlled savage state. I can only imagine the exhaustion you’ve suffered,” Clay says softly, completely oblivious to the clues Brazen has sniffed out with his overly developed talents.
“Araya, if-”
“I’m fine, Brazen. Really. Just tired,” I interrupt before those eyes find the truth hiding behind my deceitful mask.
I get it now. I understand why Hale and Brazen both kept me in the dark. They loved me too much to watch me die, and they knew I would go after these monsters eventually. Now, it’s my turn to leave them in the dark. It’s my turn to ensure their safety. I’m stronger, faster, and damn near indestructible… I hope.
“I’m going to take Araya back to bed. I’ll come talk to you later,” Hale murmurs to the others while kissing my head through my hair.
I snuggle my head against the nook of his neck, and he just holds me that much tighter as the others start dispersing. I feel the soft bed beneath me before I ever realize we’ve left the living area.
“Baby, I’ve known you long enough to know when you’re not being honest. Care to share the load on your mind with your fiancé?” Hale asks so sweetly.
“I really am just tired. I’m still thinking of how I controlled my savage. I know I’ll have to recreate it soon enough,” I lie while veering the conversation.
“You won’t have to do it alone, babe. I’ll be there with you,” he says, and I worry he’s figured it out.
Drat. Damn you, you perfect hybrid and your insightful gift for reading my body.
“I know.”
He smirks before kissing me on the lips, and then he pulls the covers up around me while heading to the kitchen. I sigh out in relief for having successfully knocked him and Brazen off my scent. I’ve got to work on my poker face. I never was good at that damn game.
