Page 58 of Lovers Fate

“You’re Athena Dean,” he says, disbelievingly drawing the connection.

“I am.” I give him a weak smile, expecting him to jump in his truck and not look back.

“That wasn’t your fault,” he says, pinching his brows. “You know that, right?”

“Tell that to the judge and the psychiatric ward they sent me to when I was a kid.”

He runs his fingers frustratingly through his pitch-black hair, reminding me so much of Draco. I’m shocked to see a single tear slide down his face. “Who knows?”

“No one. Not yet, but it’s just a matter of time when they do.”

“That’s why you stay at the motel and keep to yourself.”

I look back at the house again and then at him. “I think it’s best that I do. For everyone’s sake.”

He turns around, and when I think he’s going to walk around his truck and leave, he surprises me by opening the passenger door and saying, “Get in.”

“That’s okay, Kaden. I can order an Uber to take me back.”

He shakes his head. “No, I won’t allow it. It’s not safe.” His mouth lifts in a grin. “You beat a rapist, Athena. In my book, he got what he deserved, and we both know men like that exist. Don’t make yourself a target.”

He’s right. I should take him up on his offer for a ride. I need to save every penny for a car.”

When I click the seat belt once I’m inside of his truck, I ask, “Why are you being kind to me? I just told you I’m the girlresponsible for taking an ax to a man, and you’re offering me a ride home.”

“You gave me advice when I needed it; I’m returning the favor.” Like that’s a good enough reason. “I’m not going to tell anyone, so don’t worry.”

I appreciate his offer in keeping his mouth shut. “Are you going to tell Draco?”

He glances toward the main highway. He doesn’t say anything for a few seconds, the tension growing thick. “I don’t know. Would you care if I did or didn’t?”

Better now than later.

“We both know you will. Is there anything you don’t tell him?”

“He’s my uncle,” he says. “I tell him everything.”

“Where are your parents?” I ask curiously.

He mentions Draco like he’s his only family or something. He never mentions a mother, sister, or another sibling.

“What do you mean?”

I arch a brow. “The woman who gave birth to you.”

“Dead,” he says quietly.

I look away, watching the trees out the window. The sun beginning to set on the horizon. “I’m sorry.”

“It’s alright.” He clears his throat. “I’ve come to terms with it.”

“I’ve come to terms with mine. Not like that, but it kinda feels the same.”

“How’s that?” he asks, glancing at me briefly.

“She disowned me for what I did to her precious husband. After my conviction, she handed me over to the state.

“Jesus, that…sucks.”

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