Page 88 of Blood and Ruin: The Complete Series

Their safety is more important than what my heart wants.

And that’s all that matters.

CHAPTER 19

As we head down towards the basement, Rion keeps watch for anyone that may have followed us.

Kai rips open the large metal doors and pulls me inside, Rion following swiftly behind.

Once the door is shut, Kai places a kiss on my hand before letting it go. Giving me a smile before making his way over to Axel and the small wooden table they have pushed against the back wall.

Rubbing my hand and the spot Kai kissed, I move further into the small, cramped space full of loud hanging pipes and dust. An old pipe above us pops and hisses, making me wince at its screech.

“It’s not ideal, but it does the job,” Rion says from beside me, making me jump.

“Make yourself at home.” Giving me a knowing smile, he moves past me to follow Kai.

Looking around, I see crates of dusty boxes haphazardly thrown against the walls to make an open area for them to sit. A set of mismatched chairs and stools have been thrown together to make a small lounge area.

Luka, Jax and Luna are huddled together, talking. The affection in their eyes makes me envious of the love they share, knowing and feeling those same tender glances, once upon a time.

Glancing back at the door, I wonder if I could sneak out of here while they’re distracted. Then they could all forget about trying to help me and just focus on getting themselves and Luna away from here.

I’m more trouble than I am worth, carrying a truckload at this stage.

Edging backwards, I’m about to make my move when Luka spots me, alerting Jax to my presence.

“Kiarra!” Jax rushes over and envelops me into a tight hug. I deflate, as my plan crumbles to the floor.

He brushes his cheek against mine, making me feel safe and warm.

“We should never have let you go on your own.” He pulls back, checking me over for any injuries and relaxing when he finds none.

“I’m a big girl, Jax. I can look after myself.”

He shakes his head, a slight curve to his lips.

“Just because you can, doesn’t mean you should.” He pulls back, moving a hand to the side of my face. The longer he looks, the bigger his frown grows. “You okay?”

I swallow hard, giving him a slight nod.

His frown deepens, not believing a moment of it.

“My turn.” Luka appears from behind him, pushing Jax out of the way and embracing me.

“I’m glad you’re safe,” he whispers in my ear.

I’m not, but I can’t tell him that, nor any of them. Once I convince them to drop their crazy plan to try to help me and get out of here, Kaladar will hunt me down, I’m sure of it. And that’s without what King will do when Kaladar tells him of my disobedience.

Keeping them far away from all that is for the best.

I couldn’t live with myself if I dragged them into my mess.

Glancing over his shoulder, I find Luna watching us with a hesitant look on her face.

Why couldn’t I just get my shit under control?

I try to pull away from Luka, to change the subject and hopefully the thick blanket of emotion in the air, but his grip tightens.

---