SEVENTEEN

AUBURON

“Everything okay?” Asks Liani. I swallow and try to regain my composure knowing that she could see the worry and anger in my eyes. As Layla’s twin, our bond is similar to a mate bond but not as intense. So, I felt what she did the night of the attack. But, once she remained in the coma, it was harder to feel our twin bond. I was angry about what happened to her. I’m her brother, I should’ve been there to protect her.

I’m worried because I know what she experienced was traumatic. I don’t know if I can bear the pain of hearing her truth. But, as future king, I know I will have to hear the troubling experiences of my people.

“Hey,” Liani says grabbing my face towards her, pulling me away from my thoughts. I didn’t even realize I never answered her question.

“Talk to me,” she says as she looks at me with so much concern. Her thumb was rubbing gently across my cheek. I take a deep breath and say “Layla’s ready to talk about the night of her attack.” I say searching her eyes for c