Chapter 118

Kessler holds me close as if I mean the world to him. His scent is comforting. "Please, get me water," I tell him as he stands up, goes to the kitchen, and brings back a bottle of water.

I sit up and look at Ryder, realizing he is almost lifeless on the floor. I guess it's the impact of the syringe he brought to inject me.

I rushed to Ryder's side. My heart races as I check for signs of life, hoping for any flicker of movement. "Ryder, can you hear me?" I whisper, my voice trembling with worry.

Fear grips me as I realize I could have been almost lifeless like him, and I doubt I would survive it.

I can't begin to imagine the trauma that would follow. Someone wants me dead for sure, and now I don't think Ryder can say anything to reveal who sent him.

I was consumed with worry, but my thoughts turned to Julie. How would she handle the revelation that her mate is not who she believes him to be?

Just then, Kessler walked in with the bottle of water in hand and handed it to me. "Thank