Chapter 72

My wait for her return has felt endless, a torture. But now I'm glad, relieved even that she's away, that she's not close to someone who can't protect her, who draws danger and chaos. 

It's better she's away. She can't end up like Fawn.

As much as I hate to admit it, Austin was right. I am a mess, I am the one fucking things up, I brought Paige into this, ignored her warnings and cries and look at it now. It's a blessing she isn't here.

If she returns…then I'll be ready or as close to ready as I can be.

Austin pulls out a handkerchief and offers it to me, "Here, your nose is bleeding."

Startled, a hand reaches to check and he's right. Letting a cough I nod a thanks and mutter as I wipe, "Haven't had much else to do but train."

"Can we not talk."

Right.