Page 94 of Séance

She takes a shuddering breath, then peers at Gunner’s back with a concerned expression, but the big man continues to stare at the blank screen, his posture so rigid, I’m afraid he might shatter.

Rue leans forward, grabbing one of the bags I dropped on the bed earlier. She pulls the jewelry boxes out, then offers one to Jace, waiting expectantly.

Jace stares at the box for a moment. When he makes no move to take it, she pops it open to reveal a simple but elegant ring with detailed engravings. She pulls it out, then slips it over his thumb. “My abilities are spilling over into your world. These will help keep you safe.”

She opens another ring box. Before she can even turn toward James, he’s already holding his hand out. The ring slips easily over his thumb, and he holds it to his chest. “I’ll never take it off.”

I startle when she turns toward me and holds out a thin, narrow box. I don’t move as she flips it open to reveal a stunning bracelet, something I would pick for myself. I don’t even realize I’m reaching for it until cool metal touches my fingertips.

“Rue…” I trail off, unsure what to say, my heart breaking when I realize she truly believes her own lies.

She winks at me, her smile a little lopsided. “Humor the crazy girl, okay? Wear it for me?”

I find myself nodding, possessive of the bracelet she picked out for me. As the heavy weight settles around my wrist, myresolve firms. Crazy or not, she’s mine. As long as her fantasy isn’t hurting anyone, I don’t give a fuck.

Chapter Thirty

GUNNER

I’m not sure how long I stare at the blank screen, the image of my sister seared into my brain. I’m barely holding myself together after seeing her again after so long. Grief wells up in me from deep in my soul, where it has taken root since the day I lost her, but along with it comes acceptance that she’s still around, still protecting me.

It’s like being given a precious gift.

“It’s not a curse, it’s a gift.” I hate that she would even think otherwise. While Ellis might doubt Rue, I embrace her ability. “There is no doubt in my mind that if you hadn’t saved me, I would be dead right now.”

I flex my shoulders, the weight of the tattoo on my back a welcoming ache that makes me feel closer to both Maggie and Rue. Turning away from the blank screen, I peer at Rue still cuddled on the bed. “My sister… Can I see her?”

“I don’t know,” Rue says, her face scrunched up uncertainly. “I’d have to check the journals.”

I don’t miss the worry darkening her teal eyes. I take a step toward her, wanting to bundle her up in my arms. “What’s wrong?”

“It takes a lot of energy for a spirit to take form.” She leans forward, and Jace quickly places his hands on her hips to steady her. I’m not sure if he’s trying to keep her in his lap or away from his dick.

And Rue is completely oblivious.

I could almost sympathize with him…if I wasn’t so insanely jealous. I love these fuckers like they are my brothers, and I want nothing more than their happiness, but that doesn’t stop me from wanting that for myself.

For the first time in my life, I feel it’s possible…with Rue.

The ache along my back reminds me that Rue cares.

It’s enough.

For now.

If she ever wants more, I will do everything in my power to make sure she never regrets her decision.

My eyes drop toward her tablet and the hidden image of my sister. As much as I want to talk to my sister again, I would never do anything to jeopardize her safety. “I understand.”

That doesn’t mean I’m not disappointed.

For so long, she was the only one who loved me.

I just want to thank her and tell her how much she means to me. Even though I was born to save her life, she saved mine instead.

“But…” Rue looks down at her hands, clenching and unclenching them until her knuckles whiten. Hope surges through my chest. I’m not sure I’m even breathing as I lean toward her, afraid that I might miss her next words.

“While you might not be able to see her, I could contact her…communicate with her.” She hurries to continue before I can blurt out my answer. “I can’t guarantee it will work. She mightbe too exhausted. Reaching the other side doesn’t always go as expected.”

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