Page 28 of Second Chance Mates

“I’ll never push you to speak about things you don’t want to.”

I roll my lips together and stare at the picture of a rainbow in a daisy field.

“Jaxon says I’m his mate,” I blurt out.

Gemma offers me a small smile.

“I don’t know how I feel about it.”

“Why’s that?”

Tension builds in my chest, and I push it away before I start breathing too quickly. “Because Lucien said the same thing, and he–”

I pause, and Gemma remains silent.

The words almost form in my mouth, but they taste like poison. I squirm at the thought and bite down on my jaw in response. “H-he did things to me. He hurt me.”

“And you’re fearful Jaxon will be the same?”

All I can do is nod.

“Which is completely understandable, Ava. You’ve been a human your whole life, and being thrown into this new world is confusing. Even us wolves find things hard to digest.”

I lower my head. “Is there anyone in the house except Jaxon you feel comfortable being around?”

My teeth clamp on my bottom lip. “Lucy,” I exhale quietly. “I’m more comfortable being around women.”

“Now, this is just a suggestion, and I’m not telling you what to do. But if you told Lucy you’d like to spend some more time with her, I know she’d drop everything in a heartbeat. That woman is wonderful.” I glance over my shoulder to find Gemma beaming at me with honesty.

“Maybe.”

Gemma slides her hands into her pockets casually. “The past of someone doesn’t define them. I see you, Ava. I see a strong woman who is bound to shine. It’s okay to do things at your own pace.”

The corner of my lip twitches, but it doesn’t quite make a full smile.

“Not sure about the strong part,” I murmur.

“I beg to differ. You could set yourself a goal or a task; it doesn’t have to have a timescale. Only when you feel comfortable. This pack treats everyone like family, and they will always have your back.”

I stare at the blank wall and fill my lungs with oxygen. “I can try.”

“And I’ll be here if you wish to talk. Small progress is still progress. Don’t let anyone tell you any different.”

11

AVA

When some of the pack enter the house a few hours later, I timidly loiter by the stairs. My eyes focus on Lucy as she talks with Phia. I remember her from my day in the rain. Lucy spots me from across the hallway and approaches.

“Hey, Ava,” she says warmly. “How are you?”

“I’m okay,” I admit.

Lucy’s smile is warm and makes my bones relax. “I’m just about to make some lunch in Jaxon’s private kitchen. Would you like to join me?”

My head nods before I register I’m doing it. “Yes, please.”

Her expression lights up, and I can tell she’s trying her hardest not to overreact. It’s been a while since I’ve spoken to her one-on-one. I think about what Gemma said, and this is progress, even if it seems tiny to some.

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