Page 69 of Love Bites Extra Hard

We sat in silence for a long while, listening to Avery’s breathing grow stronger. After more time had passed, I carefully rolled her over with me so she was on top, rather than trapped between me and the mattress.

Knowing there was nothing between her and more injuries made my chest tight. Breathing was difficult, too, but I couldn’t protect her from everything.

Not from the air.

And not from my life.

I needed to take her home, to let her go… but I couldn’t.

It wasn’t even an option.

She was mine.

And there was nothing else I could say or do about it.

Eventually,she stirred again.

There was more color in her cheeks, and her wounds had to have been doing better. With the dried blood now sticking us together, I wouldn’t be able to release her without some warm water to separate us. But that was okay. I didn’t want to let go anyway.

She slowly peeled her face off my chest.

When she winced, I growled.

“I’m fine,” she whispered, patting my arm lightly.

“You’re not fucking fine.”

She ignored me, looking at Stella.

The scent of my sister’s tears flooded the room, and Avery squeezed her hand lightly. “It wasn’t your fault. It was my idea, remember? Don’t blame yourself.” Her voice was light and soft as she confirmed my suspicions. “Next time, we’ll get him.”

I snarled. “There’s not going to be a next time.”

Stella dashed away a few more tears. “We can’t do that again.”

“Sure we can.” Avery tried to pull more of her body off mine, but there was too much blood sticking us together. “I’m fine.”

I snarled again. “You’re not fucking fine.”

“We almost lost you, Avery.” Stella’s hand trembled as she squeezed my mate’s. “Let’s just table this topic. You both need to eat—I can go grab food.”

“You need a shower first.” Avery gave her a small smile. Stella was covered in almost as much blood as I was.

“So do you,” Stella pointed out.

Avery laughed softly, wincing in pain when she did.

I growled, and she swatted me on the shoulder to hush me.

It didn’t work. Obviously.

“I’ll wash up fast, then bring you food,” Stella said, looking at me. The humor in her eyes faded fast.

I jerked my head in a nod.

She squeezed Avery’s hand one more time. “I’m so glad you’re okay.”

With that, she slipped out of the room.

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