Chris
I watched through the window of my office as Ava stepped out into the courtyard, her arm looped through Leonard’s in that familiar, casual way. A pang of something sharp and unpleasant twisted in my gut as I observed the two of them together, their heads bent close in what seemed to be an intimate conversation.
It was jealousy that I was feeling, plain and simple. I wanted to go after them, to tell Ava the truth about tonight—but I had no time. The Elders had called me here for a meeting, and I couldn’t refuse. Not right now, at least.
Turning, I tore my gaze away from the window to meet those of all five Elders, who were standing in a line opposite my desk.
“Why did you call me here?” I asked, glancing at my watch. “It’s late. I’ve got an early start tomorrow.”
E
