Page 141 of Demise

“What’s there to say, Wes?”

“So much,” he sighs as he steps in fully, shaking his head as he runs his hand through his hair. “And nothing. I don’t want to make excuses. I should have come clean early on, that’s on me. No matter how much I thought I was doing the right thing, it doesn’t excuse my behavior, and I don’t expect you to forgive me.”

I stay silent, watching him as he continues.

“But even if you hate me, even if you never want to see me again, even if you want Griggs to empty his clip into my head, I need you to know that I love you. That I’ll never stop loving you, and even if I’m not with you, I’ll never stop protecting you.”

He waits for me to say something, but when I don’t, he hangs his head and sighs, nodding before heading for the door.

“Where are you going?” I ask stiffly.

His eyes come to me, confusion heavy in them as he shakes his head.

“I’m pissed at you,” I say, “obviously. You broke my trust, all of ours, and that is not something that can just be given back. Just ask Asher.” I laugh bitterly. “But I understand where your head was at, even if I don’t agree with it. You didn’t owe me anything when you accepted your…position, and I’d like to think I know you well enough to know you wouldn’t let anything happen to me or any of the guys going forward.”

He shakes his head fiercely. “Never. Sky, I promise, no more secrets, no more hidden agendas. Full honesty, all the time.”

I nod at that, though my stomach turns with guilt. We should all come to this conclusion together if we want a healthy, functioning relationship, and that includes me fessing up to where I was today and where I very much plan on going tomorrow.

Holding out my hand, he hesitates for a moment before linking our fingers together.

“C’mon, we all need to talk.”

He nods and follows me willingly as we make our way downstairs. The guys are still in the living room, all with drinks in their hands as they talk. When they notice me, each of them stands to their feet, their eyes coming to Wesley and my hands in a curious way.

“No more secrets, no more bullshit. If this is going to work, we have to be open and honest, no matter what,” I say.

Everyone nods their agreement, and I take a deep breath as I go on.

“And that includes me as well. Today, I told Wesley that I was going to grab some food with Maggie and Maryia, which I did, but I also went back to Rachel’s shop.”

“The witch?” Asher snaps.

“Skyla,” Liam groans.

“What were you thinking?” Ronan thunders.

Vincent and Wesley stay quiet, but looks of disappointment are splashed across their faces.

“And,” I continue, “I’m going tomorrow as well. I understand none of you may like it, but I’m doing it, it’s happening, so I suggest you deal with it.”

“Is this what you would deem healthy communication?” Vincent drawls.

I shrug. “I’m not lying about my whereabouts.”

They are silent for several seconds before Ronan speaks.

“We’re coming with you.”

“What?” Asher bites out.

Ronan looks to him, nodding before his eyes come to me.

“I don’t like it, but since you’re clearly going to go regardless of our warnings, I want to be there for your protection. The band of idiots are welcome to join.”

“Hey! Why the fuck am I lumped in? Have we forgotten? Perfect boyfriend over here?”

Vincent and Asher scoff as Ronan shakes his head, ignoring Liam as he looks at me.

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