Page 58 of Cursed Beasts

“Oh, thank you,” I said, taking a vial and uncorking it.

“Not now, they are for later,” he said, holding my hand to stop me from drinking it. “They are for your pain.”

“Oh, well, you could have led with that,” I said, feeling shy.

“I should have,” he smiled. “I was under strict orders to make sure we get the sling and this salve on you. He is busy with a few things and he will check in on you when he gets a chance.”

I turned to face him as my legs dangled off the side of the bed, still having to look up at him. Lucien pulled out a small jar from his pants, opened it and took a little out.

“Is it ok—”

He let his question trail off like he didn’t know how to ask.

“It’s ok,” I said, letting my strap fall to the side to give him better access.

He nodded before gently covering my shoulder in the salve that tingled before I felt my shoulder relax.

“What was that?” I said, feeling better than I already was.

He took the cloth, gently putting my arm into it and tying it off. A few strands of hair fell onto his forehead, making me fight the urge to push them away.

“Am I hurting you?” he asked, adjusting the cloth to cover my arm better.

“Not at all.” I tried to sound composed.

“That should do it,” he said, stepping back.

“Thank you,” I said, clenching my hands to keep from reaching out for him.

He turned to walk away from me but looked over his shoulder before he took another step.

“I’m sorry, Katarina,” he said, his warm voice making me shiver. My name sounded amazing on his lips.

“You have nothing to be sorry for,” I said immediately.

“You don’t even know what I’m apologizing for,” he said, with a small smile.

I pursed my lips together, realizing he was right.

“I’m sorry for not trying to help you.” He took a deep breath. “Living through this curse is a hell I wouldn’t wish upon anyone. I’m exhausted both mentally and physically.”

“Then help me,” I said, my heart breaking for him.

“I got upset. Hope is dangerous when you live like us,” he said, running another hand through his hair. “I haven’t held onto any hope because there is nothing worse than the possibility within your grasp, only for life to leave it just out of reach. That’s what it’s like to have a Belladonna come here, where we all fight.”

Lucien looked down at the floor, looking lost in thought. I slid off the bed to walk to him.

“Lucien, I don’t want your apology. Just help me.” I cupped his cheek. “Let’s at least try.”

He leaned into my touch, closing his eyes.

“Ok,” he whispered. “I have been thinking about something I think we should research, but I think you should rest, at least for today.”

I couldn’t help the smile that escaped, feeling hopeful as I let my hand fall from his face.

“I have a journal I have been translating,” I said, explaining to him what had gotten sent to me and what Mr. Potter had found. “Only a few sentences of the translation make sense. Maybe you can try it. I’m missing something or I’m not seeing it.”

“Ok, I’ll give it a go next time. I have a few books in mind that I’d like for you to read as well,” he said, stepping away from me. “I think I have enough time to get them for you.”

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