Chapter 240
Jason’s hand shook as he took the weapon. He turned toward Elyra, his face a mask of inner turmoil.
“Jason,” Elyra pleaded, her voice trembling. “You don’t have to do this.”
“You don’t understand,” he muttered, his grip on the dagger tightening.
“Then explain it to me!” Elyra cried, her voice breaking.
Jason froze, his breathing ragged. Despite the red-eyed woman’s oppressive influence, something inside him refused to let him act. He lowered the dagger, his expression conflicted.
The red-eyed woman’s smile twisted into a scowl. “Pathetic,” she spat.
Taking advantage of Jason’s hesitation, Dain surged against the magical bindings, his strength breaking through with an audible crack. He grabbed Elyra and darted into the woods, his speed fueled by adrenaline and desperation.
The red-eyed woman’s furious voice echoed behind them. “You can’t run forever!”
________________
Elyra and Dain burst into the cabin, their breaths ragged and their clothes torn. Matthew, seated by the fire, shot to his feet at the sight of them.
“What happened?” he demanded, his voice sharp with worry.
Elyra hesitated, glancing at Dain. For years, they had kept their secret buried, but the events of the evening left no room for denial.
“It’s time you knew,” Elyra said quietly, her voice heavy with resignation.
They explained everything—how they didn’t remember their origins, the abilities they had been discovering, and the attack by the wolf-like creature. They described the Lycan King and the looming threat he represented.
Matthew listened intently, his expression unreadable. When they finished, an uneasy silence settled over the room.
“Well,” Matthew said finally, his tone calm but firm, “that explains a lot.”
“You’re not surprised?” Elyra asked, blinking in confusion.
Matthew sighed, rubbing a hand over his face. “Let’s just say I’ve seen some strange things in my time. I’ve always known there was something different about you two. But whatever you are, you’re my kids. And that means I’ll do whatever it takes to protect you.”
Elyra’s eyes welled with tears, and Dain’s usual stoic demeanor softened.
Matthew leaned forward, his gaze steady. “Now, tell me everything about this red-eyed woman and what we’re up against. If they want to come after you, they’ll have to go through me first.”
