Page 25 of This Blood That Breaks Us

“I know, Love.”

My weight shifted, and without thinking, I reached for Her. Cupping Her chin, I pulled Her to me. I needed Her lips on mine.

A knock on the door cut through my trance, and I pulled away.

Ezra stepped in and bowed. “My queen, I have something to discuss.”

“Can I go? You’ll be all right?” My whole body was hot and buzzing from head to toe.

“I’ll be fine, Love. Go if you wish.”

I bowed and made my way out into the hallway. I had to fight the urge to sprint.

Thane was next to me. “Hey, wait up. Are you okay?”

“I’m good. I just need some air.”

Day one and I was already losing my resolve. I tried not to think. Impossible. What was wrong with me? Had I forgotten in a matter of seconds the things She’d done to Sarah? To my brother? To my family?

The feeling of doom and panic built in my chest.

No, No, Luke. Don’t do it. Don’t crumble.

I plowed over someone in the hallway.

Laying unmoving, Connell looked up at me, waiting for me to respond.

“I’m so sorry.” I reached down to pull him up.

He popped up. “Oh no, please don’t apologize, sir.”

“Call me Luke.”

His eyes widened. “Yes si—I mean, Luke. Yes. I will call you whatever you want.”

His smile grew wide, and I saw my brothers so clearly in his face. Grief washed over me, tearing me from top to bottom. I hated this. How could I do this? How could I stay here?

Together. Keep it together.

“Connell, how are you doing here?”

“W-what do you mean?”

“Are you happy? Are you safe?”

He narrowed his eyes, then blurted. “Of course. The guys can be a bit tough at first, but I think they’re warmin’ to me. Henderson is rough around the edges, but he means well.”

“Tell me if he gives you too much trouble. I’ll take care of it.”

His whole face softened. “Thank you . . . ”

I grabbed his shoulder and gave it a squeeze before continuing on to my room.

“He’s so young,” Thane said, somewhere close at my heels.

I stopped when I reached my bedroom door. “I’m sorry, Thane. Can I have a second?”

“Yeah, of course. Tell me if I can help. I’ll stay out here and wait for you.”