Page 22 of Fated to the Hunters
There was a pause before she was surprised by the scary one’s gentle, gruff voice. “Just because they don’t befriend you doesn’t mean that you’re worthless. Your father’s shadow does not define who and what you are. You are strong, beautiful, and smart. He’s just too afraid to see you flourish. He doesn’t want to lose the little girl who you used to be, and he is weak for it.”
As he spoke, Scarlett only cried harder, grateful that no one could see her.
“Sometimes the people we love are afraid we might get hurt,” the gentle one added. “I believe that’s what’s keeping your father so protective of you.”
“He won’t love me once he knows about you.”
“I don’t believe his love for you will ever die, but he has principles that he’ll value above that love. Deep down you’ll always be his daughter,” the gentle one soothed further. “I’m sorry tonight did not go as you had hoped.”
“Last night was better.”
“We would love to hear about it,” her gentle one said softly but without pressure.
“I went to my first party.”
“Do tell what kind of party that was, little princess.”
“Well, it wasn’t really a party but Maximilian allowed me to go drinking with him and his friends.”
While her silent mate grunted amused nearby, the scary one feigned offense. “Did our little princess get drunk without us?”
“No, but it felt good to be included.”
The scary one chuckled. “Oh, you’ll have so much fun with us.”
“Whenever she is ready,” the quiet one offered.
“Yes, of course, whenever you are ready, my little princess.”
“I should go now.”
“Sweet dreams, love.”
Scarlett awoke to a knock on the door, and her brother trudging into the room. “Good morning, sleepy head.”
Her eyes drifted to the clock on the nightstand, and it truly was late. She never slept past ten.
“We’re heading out shortly. But there is still breakfast if you are hungry.”
“Who’s driving me back?”
“You’ll be with Kurt.”
Scarlett swallowed her sigh of relief. Kurt was still protecting her.
“I wanted to drive you, but Father said it was a bad idea. Especially with the article being so new, he doesn’t want any connection drawn.”
Scarlett nodded her understanding and pushed herself into a sitting position.
Her brother inhaled deeply, as if he was preparing to say more, but then shrugged it off and walked out. She quickly dressed and followed him downstairs where their mom was already plating the left-over breakfast.
“Ah good, I was just about to call for you.”
“Sorry. I must have been tired.”
“You have had a few long days.”
Scarlett sat at the table and watched her mother pack up before she gave her a kiss. Just like her brother, their father was already out and ready to go. Scarlett soaked up the peace and quiet of the next couple hours before Kurt arrived to take her home.
