Chapter 173

Sarah's POV "Auntie, why aren't you here yet?" Thea's worried voice through the phone jolted me back to reality. Oh God. Thea! I'd completely forgotten about our bedtime story arrangement. I tried to move and immediately winced—every muscle in my body screamed in protest. Alexander had claimed me so thoroughly that walking seemed an impossible feat right now. "I'm so sorry, sweetheart," I managed, my voice still hoarse from screaming Alexander's name countless times. "I got... held up." "Are you okay? You sound funny," Thea said, her concern evident even through the phone. I glanced at Alexander's sleeping form beside me, his powerful chest rising and falling steadily. "Your uncle had too much to drink, and I'm taking care of him. Once he's settled, I'll come read you a story." "I can come to you!" Thea offered enthusiastically. "No!" I nearly shouted, then softened my tone. "I mean, no, sweetheart. Stay in your room. I'll be there soon, I promise." After hanging up, I carefully extrac