Page 59 of Grave Intentions

We ride out our dual release, our bodies slick with sweat as our hearts pound in rhythm. When we come down from our mutual high, I kiss the initials on Talon’s chest, his blood fresh and warm.

“Perfect,” he murmurs, his eyes half-lidded with satisfaction. “Just like you, Lena.”

I trace my fingers over the fresh carving on Talon’s chest, watching the way his blood glistens in the dim light. My initials, permanently etched into his skin—a dark mirror of the mark he left on me. The metallic scent of blood mingles with our sweat and sex, creating an intoxicating cocktail that makes my head spin.

Who would have thought that scared little foster girl would end up here?

But there’s something right about this—about us. Two broken pieces that fit together perfectly in their jagged edges. Others might call our love toxic, dangerous, or wrong. They don’t understand that some flowers only bloom in darkness.

I press my palm against his chest, feeling his strong heartbeat beneath my initials. This is real. This is forever. No more David, no more Wilson family trying to control us. Just Talon and me, bound together by blood and darkness and an obsessive love that consumes everything in its path.

For the first time in my life, I feel truly powerful. Not the victim, not the good little foster daughter trying to please everyone. Here, in Talon’s arms, covered in his blood, I am exactly who I was always meant to be.

My dark protector. My perfectly twisted other half.

I smile, letting my fingernails dig into the fresh wounds on his chest. His sharp intake of breath sends a thrill through me. Yes, this is exactly where I belong.

37

TALON

Iwatch Lena sip her coffee across the breakfast table. The morning light streams through our Boston apartment windows, casting a warm glow on her skin. Two months have passed since David’s disappearance, and the investigation has hit dead ends despite the Collins family throwing their wealth at it.

“The heat’s died down,” I say, setting down my mug. “It’s time we deal with Wilson.”

Lena’s hand trembles slightly as she lowers her cup. “Are you sure?”

“He deserves what’s coming after what he did to you.” My jaw clenches at the memory of his violation. “When he kicked me out, he took advantage of you. That was his final mistake.”

“I wanted to forget that.” Her voice wavers. “But every time I close my eyes...”

“He won’t hurt you again.” I reach across the table and take her hand. “I’ve planned everything. The Collins family can’t find David, and they never will. Mr. Wilson will meet the same fate.”

“What if something goes wrong?” Her hazel eyes meet mine, filled with concern.

“Nothing will go wrong. I’ve been watching his routine for weeks. He’s predictable—same schedule, same habits.” I squeeze her hand. “He thinks he’s untouchable because of his connections. That’s what will make this perfect.”

“The system failed us back then,” Lena whispers.

“And now it’s time to get our revenge.” I trace circles on her palm. “Do you trust me?”

“With my life.” She nods. “When?”

“Tonight. I’ll need your help, though.” I stand and move around the table to her. “No one will ever hurt you again. I promise.”

Mr. Wilson thinks he got away with it—hurting Lena and abusing his power. But tonight, that power dynamic shifts. I’ve watched, waited, bided my time, and meticulously planned our revenge.

“You’ll need to arrive around seven when it’s getting dark.” I outline the plan as Lena listens, her eyes unwavering. “Come to the front door; I’ll watch through the kitchen window. Knock three times, and Mr. Wilson will answer. He’ll be alone and likely drunk, so you must be careful. Act vulnerable, play into his sick fantasies.”

Her jaw tightens at the thought, but she remains resolute. I know this isn’t easy for her, but we both understand the necessity.

“What then?” she asks, her voice steady.

“Let him believe you’re willing. Draw him to your old room, and I’ll take care of the rest.”

Lena’s eyes glint with mixed emotions—fear, anger, and determination. “And then?”

“I’ll make him pay for what he did to you for what he tried to do again.” A cold smile stretches my lips. “I’ve waited a long time for this.”

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