“They are unaccustomed to observing it,” Bella said succinctly. She was aware that they were not. The sole individual they had ever observed her in such proximity with was Tim.
“They must acclimatise to observing it.” I desire the ability to embrace you at my discretion. I appreciate it. Maddis does as well, in that regard.
“It is premature, that is all.” “They are unfamiliar with you.” She shrugged, since she too no longer truly knew him. She had internal strife as well. Occasionally, she found it enjoyable. At other occasions, she failed to comprehend the rationale behind it. She knew that she did not trust him. Was united with a man in whom she lacked complete faith. That may prove detrimental at some juncture.
She resumed observing the youngsters, noting as the girls rose to join the other children in a different activity deeper within the room, with Karis trailing behind them.
The females are agreeable towards me. What is the reason behind Karis’s absence?Luke enquired.
“I would enquire about that,” Bella responded. “He likely has questions that require clarification.”
I heard him exhale deeply, saying, “He enquired once more about my whereabouts.” I am uncertain how to respond to that inquiry.
“I recommend that you approach it with honesty.” Bella shrugged, since this was probably the only option that Karis would accept.
“I do not believe that would facilitate my bonding with him,” he mumbled, sounding rather irritated to her.
“Likely not, but deceiving him will not be well-received either, will it?””
“Bella, we must discuss this matter and reach a reasonable compromise that avoids assigning blame to either party.”
She pivoted and gazed at him now. “Assign blame to either of us?” Are you considering informing him that it is my responsibility?Even she perceived the harsh tone and the faintest hint of Tyler’s gravel in her assertion; he was the one who had exiled them. Tyler disapproved of that notion as much as she did, conveying this sentiment via her words and presence.
“No,” he gently shook his head. “I do not hold you accountable, Bella.” I acknowledge that this predicament is a result of my actions.
“Good, because if you contemplate for even a moment, you will disclose this to my children.” I departed and did not return voluntarily. I shall unequivocally convey the truth to them, precisely detailing the events that transpired. I assure you that they will prioritise the statements of Tyler and myself over yours.
“That is not my statement.” There is no necessity for you to get defensive.
“Do I not?”She extricated herself from his embrace and fixed him with a penetrating gaze. “It appears you have contemplated attributing the blame to me.”
I have neither been nor will I be. “Please compose yourself, Bella.” He was now regarding her with a frown.
“Perhaps I am disinclined to do so,” she murmured, distancing herself from him and approaching Karis, who remained unengaged with anyone except his sisters. She smiled gently at him. “Karis, shall we play that game over there? The girls are perfectly fine.” She gestured towards a gaming console situated in front of a television screen. The latest Sonic game was being showcased.
He nodded at her, then bent down to inform his sisters of his whereabouts, and she extended her hand for him to grasp and guided him there. She sensed that Luke’s gaze remained fixed on her from the instant she departed from him.
She descended beside Karis. “You must assist me now.” She smiled at him.
“It is not particularly difficult, mother,” he replied, shaking his head.
“It would be prudent for you to proceed first.” Bella extended the remote control to him. “Demonstrate the method of play.”
Karis nodded and initiated a new game for them to engage in. “We shall engage in lively activities.”
Bella grinned; it was a game they played at home, one that the three of them engaged in, just as she was currently doing with him. “Will we reside here now?”Karis enquired softly a few minutes later.
“Yes,” Bella replied candidly. “I am aware that it will require significant adjustment.” I apologise for that.
He remained silent for an extended while before quietly enquiring, “Are you afraid…that if you attempt to leave, you will be harmed once more?” Is it the reason for our presence here?”
Gazed directly at him. “No,” she groaned. “What prompts that inquiry?”It was an unusual inquiry to originate from him.
“I observed the news,” he said, “and overheard other adults discussing it at school as well.”
Bella exhaled deeply and contemplated the extent of his observations and comprehension. “Explaining Karis is somewhat challenging.” I will, but not in this location. How about a private meeting after dinner?“
“Understood.” He nodded. “Will he be present?””
Bella pivoted and surveyed the room. Luke was no longer positioned against the wall; he was seated with Minka and Arana, with Minka on his lap. At that moment, his gaze was fixed on her. He was definitely displeased, having evidently overheard Karis’s recent remarks.
“It is probable.” She said, redirecting her gaze to Karis. “He may be able to elucidate the events that transpired.”
“What was the extent of your injuries?”
Bella embraced him, stating, “I wish you hadn’t witnessed that.” This was really accurate; she had not want for them to observe such a scene. However, existence in the human realm had inherent imperfections, and rapid healing at wolfen velocity was just unattainable. Had she possessed the knowledge then that she has now, she would have never let any of them to witness her in such a state. Neither Dani, nor Nina, nor Matt; no one at all.
Unfortunately, she was unable to retract it. The three individuals had observed her injuries, and it appeared to her that Karis was completely cognisant of her whereabouts at the time she sustained those injuries. He assumed Luke was accountable for them. Although he did not personally inflict those injuries against her, he orchestrated her abduction, and she got those injuries while attempting to flee from her captors.
