She stumbled in Dolphus’s hold, her legs folding as if her strength had been stripped away.
“I... I can’t think about all this, Dolphus.” Her voice broke like glass. “Please, don’t treat me this way. Lyra is gone… Jamil too. “I…” Her voice broke, lashes wet with tears. “The future isn’t something I can face now. I vowed to Elder Farrington to stay away from the Farringtons, and I must keep my word.”
Dolphus’s thumb traced her cheek, gathering her tears while he whispered, “I know it all, Elena.” Lyra and Jamil are gone. But have you thought about the pup inside you? That child is your blood. Our family.”
Her heartbeat roared in her chest, loud enough for Dolphus to notice. “But I can’t agree to your wish,” she said in a broken voice, her head moving in refusal.
Every word Dolphus spoke
