Chapter 0367

She didn't give any details. I won't disturb her rest until she's ready. Seraphina got away. Athena believes Levi intentionally released Hannah. He might have wanted her to return here. To demonstrate his capabilities to us.

I glance back at him. I will make him pay. I will tear him apart piece by piece.

I don't doubt that.

Silence hangs heavy between us.

You don't need to blame me. I mutter after a long moment. I already blame myself. She is my mate. I failed to protect her. My indecision caused this. I couldn't decide if I should mark her. I couldn't decide if I should fully accept her. She is the first to truly challenge my every thought. Do you understand what that feels like?

Not the questioning part. But I failed Isabella. He takes the seat near the door. I couldn't protect her from her own mind. Or from her twin. I missed what was right in front of me.

You haven't spoken of her since it happened.

Because I couldn't. He sighs, leaning back and shaking his head. Everyone in that packhouse adored her. Her brother was there. Her friend. Her nephews. Lottie.

Exactly! People who loved her. People waiting for you to talk about her.

None of them understand losing a mate. None truly grasp how close I came to killing my own mate.

I nod, looking at Hannah. I considered putting a bullet in her brain when she first arrived. But I could never bring myself to do it. Just like Zachary only managed to shoot her in the collarbone.

That's why Athena shot her, right? So you wouldn't have to kill your own mate.

Yes.

And it wasn't Isabella in the end.

It still looked exactly like her. He frowns deeply. I've killed many people. As a Human. And after I turned. But watching her die was the hardest thing I've ever endured.

Losing a mate is different from other deaths. You know that, Zachary. Deep down, you know it wasn't her.

Why didn't I see she had given up? He asks me.

You told me her mind was in chaos. That wasn't her doing. It was his. Take it from someone who lost a mate and a child. Let yourself accept it. Don't block it out. It will destroy you otherwise.

He scowls at me. Do you see something? Is that what you're trying to say?

You don't strike me as the type who actually wants to know.

You're right. I don't. He rises to his feet. Alexander is linking me. Let us know when she wakes.

You took the oath? I ask, surprised. I fully expected him to back out. Perhaps he was stronger than I thought.

And I became a Black.

Maybe that was exactly what he needed. Time would tell.

I pace the corridor. Theodore is with Hannah, checking her vitals. I had to leave. I couldn't stand another man's hands on her. Even if he was only helping. If I hadn't left the room, Hannah wouldn't get the help she needs.

Her door opens and Theodore steps out cautiously. Are you going to hit me?

No.

Good. Because I will fight back.

I stare at him. I've never seen him at training. Yet he maintains a very muscular, toned physique. He must be doing something. How is she?

Still unconscious. I changed her IV. Did some x-rays. Nothing is broken. Whatever happened, she had a very lucky escape.

Does she need anything? Anything you might not have here? She is essentially Human now. I can go pick up supplies.

I have everything. Isabella kept this place fully stocked because of Athena. The practice has continued since. Just in case.

She was always prepared.