Aken grabbed onto Alexis’ shoulders and spun her around to look at him. He stared into her eyes and in a firm but gentle tone he commanded, “Let me in. Please get rid of the mental barrier. You are blocking me from your thoughts.” His eyes softened as he frowned. “Please Lex. Don’t shut me out. I’m here with you. I’ll kill or destroy anyone you ask me to, but I need our connection. I know you have a large family filled with people you would die for. But I only have you when it comes to that. If you are going to plunge into darkness, again take me with you.”
Alexis swallowed as she saw the raw pain in his eyes and heard it in his voice. “I’m sorry, Aken… I won’t leave the barrier up. I’m not shutting you out. I’m not turning back into Xi.” She gave him a weak smile. “But your thoughts are
