Page 47 of Queen of Vengeance

He tucked the book behind him and slipped into the night, ensuring no one would ever know he was there.

Iwoke up in my room.

Every inch of me was sorer than I expected.

I barely rolled onto my side, breathing in the scent of Jax everywhere. It was so strong that I thought he was still there, but my room was empty. “Hm?”

I raised my head to make sure. That was when I caught a strong whiff of his scent in my hair.

It’s me. I smell of him.

I lifted my forearm to my nose to confirm.

My chest fluttered.

His scent being everywhere was just further proof that last night happened.

I threw myself back onto the bed and kicked my feet with excitement. All of a sudden, I didn’t care how sore I was. I checked the time and realized I would be late meeting with Jax and Zane. I dragged myself out of bed, planting my feet on the floor before quickly getting ready.

Good thing I already packed everything I needed yesterday!

I left my room, and Mema stood in the kitchen, tending to the flowers on the windowsill. I stopped for a moment, basking in the view of her.

I’m doing this for you, Mema. I’m going to become someone great and give you everything you deserve.

She turned to look at me and smiled. “Leaving so soon. I was hoping we could have breakfast together.”

“I can’t. I’m already late.” I frowned at her apologetically.

“Never mind that, sweet girl.” She threw her arms around me, squeezing me tightly before pulling away once she caught my scent. She tilted her head but didn’t say anything. “Just be safe out there, Lea. The world is often not kind to people like us. You have to be cautious of everything. I couldn’t stand losing you too.”

“I know, Mema! I’ll be okay. I promise. I’ll have Jax to protect me.” I couldn’t hide my delighted smile.

“Of course, dear.” She held my face. “Do you have everything you need? Perhaps we should make sure—give your bag one last look over.”

“Really, Mema. It’s fine. Would you just relax?” I laughed it off.

She wasn’t usually this clingy, but this was the first time I was traveling so far. “Alright, dear. I’m sorry. I’m just trying to look out for you.”

I didn’t blame her at all for being worried.

“Go out there and make your parents proud.” Her voice quivered as she spoke, indicating she was holding back tears.

“You don’t have to cry. I’ll be home before you know it. We’ll be together eating dinner again in no time.” I squeezed her cold hands with mine.

She nodded as a tear escaped her eye. “You had better go before I drown us both.”

We both laughed, and I leaned in, kissing her on the cheek before hugging her tightly. “Love you, Mema.”

There was nothing more curative than a hug from my grandmother.

Any lingering worry or inadequacy I feared I might possess disappeared with a simple hug.

“I love you, dear… More than you’ll ever know.” She loosened her arms, and they dropped beside her.

Tears welled up in my eyes, but I quickly blinked them back.

I gave her a quick wave and a goodbye before I left.

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