Page 153 of Mercy & Her Devils

I have a feeling that he’d be able to come from that alone.

Now, I think that the conversation was about something else entirely.

Gabriel slips a phone out of pocket.

It’s new and not his usual one.

He marches to Lark, and his expression is soft in the way that it often is now, whenever he’s with Lark.

“This is for you.” He holds the phone up to Lark’s ear, since Lark already has his arms full with Millie. “It only has one number programmed into it. Don’t use it for calling anyone else. This is the only way that we can keep both of you safe but at the same time, allow you to keep in contact. We know how important this is to you.”

My heart’s beating faster.

Who’s he talking about?

Lark’s gaze is questioning.

Faint tremors are running through him but as always, he’s trying to remain strong for Millie.

I rush to join Lark, nuzzling his neck. I take happy breaths of his zesty plum scent.

Finally, the phone is picked up.

I listen hard.

There’s a long moment of silence.

“Hello?” A sweet, male voice says.

“Uncle Cygnus!” Millie squeals.

“It’s me.” Lark’s voice is raspy with tears. “I can’t…I never…I’ll explain as much as I can but…I have a new pack now. You won’t believe this, but I’m happy and loved.” It’s heartbreaking, as if Lark never thought that’d happen and is brimming with such joy to be able to tell his only friend and once brother-in-law his news. “Finally, just like you, I’m free.”

CHAPTER TWENTY-THREE

Main Bedroom, Peacock and Dragon Estate

Istill remember the terror I experienced every day that Fletcher would break my bond. He held it like a leash around my neck to control me. I thought it was a bluff, until he actually went through with it. I’d shake every day with anxiety as I waited in the bleak, austerity of his home that was full of antiques but empty of love.

Now, however, I’m surrounded with the love of my new pack, in a home that’s cozy with warmth, clutter, and hundreds of snuggly blankets, pillows, and cushions.

Lark and I have built nests all over Peacock and Dragon Estate, which we spend our days curled in.

It’s probably overcompensating.

Yet it makes me feel like that cold cage is truly behind me.

I may still be officially on the run.

In this forest mansion with my new found family, however, I’m free.

I can be the Omega who I’ve always wanted — needed — to be.

And Lark, my scent match Omega who smells like paradise, can be as well.

I smile at Lark, clasping his hand, as we stroll through the quiet of the corridor that leads back from Millie’s room.

My feet sink into the plush blue carpet.

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