Chapter 53

LUCIAN’S POV She looked so small standing close to me, so vulnerable it twisted something deep inside me. Her tears shimmered, sliding down her cheeks, and though I hated myself for it, I loved the way she begged. I loved it too much. And that's exactly why I kept my distance. She makes me weak. Her voice trembled, breaking through the storm in my chest, her hands clenched into a fist beside her. “What do you want, Lucian? I know you want something in return.” I bent close, close enough to catch the sharp hitch of her breath. My thumb brushed across her wet cheek, catching the tear before it could fall further. “When was the last time you had a good run?” She blinked at me, stunned, her lips parting without a sound. I asked again, slower this time. “A run in your wolf form, Elora. Run with me. That's what I want.” My mouth curved faintly. “I bet Sierra would love this.” Before she could argue I pressed a kiss to her forehead. “Meet me outside.” ~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~•~ By the time she stepped