46 Chapter 45

As much as I wanted to I cannot get angry at Lucien for leaving me behind when the search party is set and finally moves out in the forest in three groups as the other two are left behind to protect the city in case of another attack.

I stayed with them, but only after Lucien pulled me to the side and almost broke down here and there, grabbing my shoulders to steady himself as, even after I told him what I saw in the woods, even though I wanted to help, a single plea for him was enough to melt my hard iron will to a puddle.

"Please Alex, listen for me just this once, I- I cannot lose you too, not again, never more, please. Stay. Please just stay here, safe, I will be back soon enough." And other things about not having to focus on me would help, that he would be quick, that he needed to know that I, at least, was safe, and on and on about it.