Chapter 264

• We walk on, aware of the following Lycans, and I try to put them out of my mind as we make our way to the hall and into the open space of a beautifully sunny day. Everything we endured these past months seems to be in another time and place. An almost forgotten memory. Surrounded by the calm, tranquil beauty of this forest-dwelling manor and the peaceful joy of a bright day filled with birds and the rustle of trees. It seems like a far-off dream, and I don’t think back then I could ever imagine taking a stroll with the high lord of vampires.
• “I know this is awkward, and it will take time for you to feel at ease with me, but I cannot get over how much this feels like Marina is here with me in spirit. I feel like I already know you. You look alike, yet don’t. There’s something of her about you, in the best way. She would be proud of the woman you have become, Alora. Proud of what you have achieved among these Lycans.”
• His words catch me off guard as we leisurely make our way towards the tree line. Tugging at my heart and yet further putting me at ease in his presence. He’s a complex person, and as I walk in time, almost perfectly matched, I wonder how many layers there are to these creatures I used to only think of as murderous bloodsuckers.