Page 153 of His Juliet

Aria asked Juliet if she could check the rest of her body for any other injuries. We slowly stripped off her dress, keeping her covered with blankets for warmth and privacy. Every bruise and scrape on her skin made me wish I could kill both Butchers all over again.

“Juliet, I have some questions we might want to discuss privately. How about if Romeo steps out for a few?—”

“No,” Juliet and I said at the same time.

Aria’s lips twitched. “Alright, then.” She cleared her throat. “Did anyone touch you sexually?”

I dragged in a shuddering breath while I waited for her answer.

“No. He tried to, but I pushed him off me, and then I guess we both went unconscious.”

I reminded myself that I’d already killed Abazi and, unfortunately, couldn’t do it again.

Juliet’s brow furrowed. “Wait, did everyone wake up? What happened?”

“We can talk about it when you feel better,” I murmured.

She forced her eyes open. “No, tell me now.”

I sighed. She deserved to know, but I wanted to shield her. “Your aunt, Elira, gave me an antidote for you. The others died.”

“My aunt?”

“That’s what she said.”

Juliet closed her eyes and curled up against me again. “Oh.”

“Is it safe for her to sleep?” I asked Aria.

“Sleep is good. I’m going to start a saline drip and I’ll monitor her vitals.”

I grabbed a pair of my boxers and sweatshirt from my small pack and carefully dressed Juliet.

“I’m sure we’re taking off soon,” Aria said. “I’ll go up front to give you some privacy, but get me if anything changes.”

She opened the bedroom door to find Matteo standing there with Queenie.

“The cat is upset,” he said.

Aria grinned as she slipped by him. Matteo deposited Queenie on the bed and she made a beeline for Juliet, curling up on her chest.

“Is she doing okay?” Matteo asked.

“I think so. I’m worried the poison will have some sort of long-term effect.” I kept my voice low, not wanting my words to reach Juliet in her sleep.

Matteo nodded. “We’ll make sure she has the best care possible the moment we land. We’re leaving in five.”

“Thank you,” I said roughly. “For being here, even though it meant leaving Sofiya and Clementine.”

“You know I would do anything for our family. That includes Juliet now.”

I nodded, my throat tight. Matteo’s acceptance of her meant the world to me.

74

ROMEO

By the timewe pulled into the garage, Juliet was much more awake and alert. I wasn’t sure that was a good thing when she clutched my arms, her nails digging into my skin.

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