Page 40 of Moth to Her Flame

I haven’t felt this good since the innocent touch that sparked the mate bond. No. That’s not true. I’ve never felt this good.

A quiet critic in the back of my mind never really trusted her words and looks of affection. It doesn’t make me proud to admitit, but it’s true. Only now do I realize that this woman cares for me with all her heart.

What just transpired between us in this bed wasn’t about pity. She cares for me, whether she can admit she loves me or not.

To make up for it, I say it for both of us.

“I’ll cherish these moments forever Chelsea. I love you.”

To relieve her from the urge to say it back even if it’s not true, I cover her mouth with mine, peppering her with dozens of little kisses until her muscles relax.

“Sleep, little DJ. We have all the time in the world to talk.”

Chapter Thirty

Riven

The crystal formations in my chamber cast dancing shadows as I monitor her broadcast on multiple frequencies. Though much of my strength has returned after our intimate encounter, unease still coils in my gut as caller after caller confirms our worst fears about Apex.

“Strange lights near Starfire Peak again,” an elderly woman reports. “And these weird humming sounds that make all the neighborhood dogs go crazy…”

Volt materializes in my doorway. “Three more drones within a one-mile radius. They’re getting bolder—flying lower, staying longer.”

“Mapping the mountain’s electromagnetic field?” The suggestion makes my wings tighten.

“Probably. And…” His massive form fills the entrance. “They’ve got some new tech. Something that interferes with my ability to disrupt their systems.”

Dante emerges silently, tablet in hand. “Dr. Andrews’ information checks out. The facility modifications, increased security, medical transport activity… it all fits.”

My wings flutter with residual weakness despite Chelsea’s affections in bed. “Any contact from our good doctor?”

“Nothing since my last report.” Dante’s tail lashes. “This isn’t good, Riven. They’re hunting us systematically.”

Through the radio, Chelsea skillfully weaves questions about research facilities between topics about UFO sightings and out-of-body experiences. To anyone else, it would seem random. But each response about the Colorado facility adds another piece to our growing puzzle.

“They’re planning something big.” Volt’s electricity fills the air. “These aren’t just surveillance patterns anymore.”

Static explodes through my headphones as Chelsea’s voice carries an edge only I would recognize. “Sorry about that, truth seekers. Seems we’re having some technical difficulties tonight…”

“The interference is deliberate.” Dante’s claws click against his tablet. “They’re testing signal disruption capabilities.”

Rising sets off a wave of dizziness—my renewed strength already fading. “Their tech is advancing too quickly. Heat signatures, signal disruption…”

“Which means we’re running out of time.” Volt’s anxious electricity crackles. “The question is: why haven’t they moved in yet?”

“They’re studying us. Learning our patterns. Finding our weaknesses.”

“Like how their new tech affects my electrical interference.” Volt’s massive wings shift restlessly. “They’re methodically dismantling our defenses.”

Looking at my weakening hands, at the concern in my friends’ faces, at the evidence of our enemy’s growing power, uncertainty gnaws at me. But one thing remains clear—as long as I have breath in my body and light in my wings, I’ll fight to protect what matters. To protect Chelsea.

Even if that fight might come sooner than any of us are prepared for.

Chapter Thirty-One

Riven

My lips trace the delicate line of Chelsea’s neck as she arches against me on the couch in her broadcasting room. Her fingers tangle in my hair, occasionally brushing my antennae in a way that makes my wings flicker with golden light. Each touch sends sparks of energy through my system, temporarily pushing back the exhaustion that’s become my constant companion.

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