Page 78 of Ascension


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“I’m scared for her, Adrian,” she admits genuinely. No hint of the usual confidence on her face. “This new life, these new threats—promise me you’ll protect her.”

“I promise, I’ll protect her with my life,” I declare, my gaze hard on hers, wanting to make my intentions clear here and now.

Her eyes scan my face, looking for any sign of a lie or half-truth. She must see the sincerity in my determined gaze as she nods, taking a step back. Satisfied with my response.

I don’t waste another moment, dissipating straight back to the manor. I need this night to be over with.

I look around the empty pathway, barely believing the attack even occurred with how serene the night sky is. No evidence of the fight lingers. I fill my lungs with the fresh night air and steel myself for what is waiting for me past the entry door.

Exhaling, I make my way up the stairs. Unfortunately, the only way I’ll get a wink of sleep tonight will be through facing my brothers first.

The others are scattered around the sitting room—with no sign of Liv—the tension thick and heavy in the air. It’s as though they simply paused their bickering until my return—that’s just fantastic.

“We set her up in the spare room. She’s sleeping,” Kyros explains, rubbing his tired eyes. The weight of exhaustion is clearly pressing down on him too.

“I’ve set up a meeting with the council for you both tomorrow morning,” Maximus blurts, moving from the wall he was propped against. His eyes encompass me and Mateo.

“You did what?” Mateo growls, stalking towards Maximus. Kyros quickly moves in his path. No one needs to deal with the aftermath of one of their fights tonight.

“He’s right,” Kyros interjects, just as I step forward, about to tell Maximus off for forcing this upon Mateo and me. “We need the council’s help now. We can’t keep letting our mate be put in danger.”

Mateo and I pause at his words, realizing the truth the moment the statement leaves his lips.

“Trust me, I don’t want to share my mate with you fuckers either. But it seems like we’ll all need to work together to keep her safe,” Mateo admits grudgingly, taking a step back. Finally, not looking like he’s about to rip Max’s head off.

We all nod in agreement. This situation will take some getting used to. However, I’ll take any extra protection I can for my mate. I thank the fates that it’s my brothers and not some other asshole god I need to work with.

Maximus grumbles something under his breath in response, crossing his arms over his chest before looking away. He’s not willing to admit anything, despite the concern written across his face after the attack.

“I’ll protect her,” Maximus finally voices, swallowing thickly. He doesn’t wait for a response, turning on his heel and marching up the stairs. The click of his door shutting a moment later, echoes through the silent room.

I huff out a breath, the deep exhaustion settling in my bones. I’m finally able to relax now, knowing Liv will be safe under Maximus’ watch. I nod to the others before traipsing upstairs myself. At the top of the stairs, I pause and look towards the spare room. The door is firmly shut, with Liv hopefully sleeping peacefully on the other side. I wish I could slide into the bed with her. Fall asleep with her wrapped in my arms, molding perfectly against my body.

I let out a sigh of frustration before walking towards my own room. At least a few hours of sleep are needed before I face the treacherous council. With one last wistful glance at the closed door, I turn away.

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