Chapter 148 part 2
**Avery**
The boys scatter like rats, their bravado evaporating in the face of Typhon’s and James’ raw power. I exhaled, my hand still pressed to my abdomen, my heart pounding. James dismounts, his tall frame moving with purposeful strides as he approaches me. His scarred shoulder is visible beneath his armor, a testament to battles past. “Are you hurt?” he demands, his voice gruff. His hands hover over me, as if he wants to touch me but restrains himself.
“I’m fine,” I replied, my voice steady, though my knees felt weak. “Just… shaken. I couldn’t transform or use my magic.”
James’s gaze darkens, his jaw clenching. “This is exactly why you should come to Talos. You’re not safe here.”
I meet his gaze, my resolve firming. “I’m not running, James. Not from anything.”
He steps closer, his presence overwhelming, his scent—pine and leather—filling my senses. “You’re not running. You’re being reckless. And I won’t let you put yourself in danger.”
I tilt my chin up, my pride warring with the fear still lingering in my chest. “And I won’t let you control me. We’re partners, James. Equals.”
His eyes search mine, a storm of emotions playing across his features. For a moment, he says nothing, his silence more unnerving than his words. Then, he reaches out, his hand cupping my cheek, his touch gentle despite his frustration. “Partners,” he concedes, his voice soft. “But I’ll protect you, Avery. Always.”
I leaned into his touch, my resolve wavering just a fraction. “And I’ll protect myself. We’re in this together.”
James’s thumb brushes my jawline, his gaze intense, hungry. “Together,” he murmurs, his voice dropping to a whisper. “But don’t test me, Avery. Not on this.”
I hold his gaze, my heart racing as the tension between us shifts, becoming something darker, more primal. The air crackles with unspoken desire, the weight of our connection heavy between us. But before either of us can act on it, the sound of approaching students interrupts the moment.
James steps back, his expression closing off, his walls rising once more. “We’ll talk later,” he says, his voice cool, distant. “About Talos. And about… other things.”
I nod, my pulse still erratic as I watch him stride away, his broad shoulders rigid with unresolved tension. The darkness within me stirs, a quiet reminder of the choices I face—between duty and desire, between safety and freedom. And as I turn to face the rest of the day, I know one thing for certain: the battle for my heart, my kingdom, and my future has only just begun.
**James**
I have a deep affection for Avery; however, as her pregnancy progresses, I have noticed a trend towards recklessness. While I understand that she is young, I cannot help but worry about the unique circumstances surrounding her pregnancy. She is the first to create eggs in over a decade. So I find myself wishing that she were carrying my egg, but I must be patient and trust that my time will come.
Initially, I shared the Trio's concerns about the Ancient One's intentions towards Avery. However, upon reflection, I believe he may have seen a reflection of himself in her, much like I see aspects of myself in her as well. It is imperative that Avery is never left alone, and I am committed to ensuring her safety.
Although Draven has taken Rory out for a special date, I am confident that he will return soon. I plan to secure a job for him at the school to keep him close. Additionally, the Trio will be returning shortly, as they have been following a lead on Altima without informing Avery. I intend to convene a meeting with them to discuss our next steps in keeping Avery safe.
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