Chapter 61

Amelia

The following day, I make my way downstairs to the dining room for breakfast with Ava and Leo. Leo doesn’t have to eat, being a lycan, but he chooses to do so because he doesn’t want Ava to ever have to eat alone. I find it heartwarming that he would do something so small yet meaningful for her.

I pause at the entrance, my breath catching in my throat at the sight of an unexpected figure occupying the seat beside my usual place. Even from behind, I would know that proud tilt of the head, those broad shoulders anywhere. Nickolas.

He turns at the sound of my approach, his expression as unreadable as ever, those green eyes giving nothing away. I search his face desperately for any hint that he’s missed me these past few days as fiercely as I’ve missed him, but his features remain an impassive mask. Swallowing hard, I force my leaden feet to carry me forward until I sink into my chair, the silence between us stretching taut as a bowstring.

Nickolas