Bonds at War: The Untouched is Mine novel Chapter 256

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“Are you okay?” I asked softly as he rowed us back to Ylarc, the wooden oars dipping into the

water.

The sun wasn’t as hot anymore; its golden rays stretched across the waves like ribbons, painting his face with a soft light that made him look younger and calmer. He shrugged, looking down at the water. “I don’t know what to feel.”

“It’s been a long time since I felt even a little at peace with my parents. And now, after all this -“He paused, exhaling sharply. “To have them change like this is something I don’t want to feel anything about.”

I couldn’t help but smile at the honesty of his words. I knew he didn’t hate them. He was just exhausted. He had spent years hardening himself against them, building armor from disappointment and rejection. To have that armor tested by even a glimmer of change, I could see why he didn’t want to give in.

I sighed and leaned across the narrow space of the boat, brushing my lips against his forehead. A small kiss, nothing more, but he closed his eyes as though that one touch could ease every burden he was carrying.

When I pulled away, his lips curved upward in a crooked smile. Then his expression shifted into something mischievous. “One more.”

I rolled my eyes, heat creeping into my cheeks. I slapped his shoulder lightly, pretending to scold him.

“You always don’t take things seriously, I swear,” I muttered, shaking my head. However, as I looked into his eyes, I knew this was his coping mechanism.

“At your own pace,” I muttered shyly yet sincerely. “You can accept anything at your own pace. No one will rush you, I’ll make sure of it. Tell me if someone does.”

A genuine smile spread across his lips before he tilted his head back and let out a laugh. “Gosh,” he breathed out. “How did I get so lucky with you?”

I glanced away, trying to hide my reddening cheeks. “What are you talking about?” I asked. “I’m just trying to protect you.”

He set the oars down for a moment, letting the boat drift, and caught my gaze. “I might not have the best family life,” he said slowly, “but I’ll make damn sure Calla never experiences it.

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15:05 Wed, Sep 24

Chapter 256 Broken Home

Our next baby, too.”

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My eyes widened. “Rowan,” I whispered, exasperated at the way he threw such things into the conversation without warning.

He smirked, the corner of his mouth tugging upward. “What? I got jealous when Cade said how sexy his mate looked with a baby bump.” His tone turned teasing and husky. “I want to see it too.”

My entire face went hot. “Stop it,” I muttered, slapping his arm again. My heart was racing too fast, and I had to change the topic of the conversation before he could continue teasing me.

“We’re near,” I added quickly.

That much was true, though. The familiar silhouette of Ylarc rose on the horizon, the cliffs cutting a strong line against the dying sun. The waters around the island glittered, reflecting the fiery orange sky. Because we had our own boat, we’d taken a longer route in the waters, circling part of the island before heading back to our pack.

He leaned over then, catching me off guard, and pressed his lips against mine. It was quick and playful, but the warmth lingered, spreading through me.

“Stop biting my lips,” I muttered as we finally arrived at the dock. “Calla will notice.”

“It’s not my fault,” he smiled, stealing another kiss. “You shouldn’t be so irresistible.”

“Shut up,” I sighed, feeling embarrassed once more. I really couldn’t win with Rowan, could I?

With that, the two of us made our way through the forest, him still teasing me, touching my waist from time to time, and saying how much he missed my body. I was about to push him away to create some distance. However, the moment we arrived near our house hidden in the trees, my heart plunged to the pit of my

stomach.

It wasn’t damaged, but it was empty. Even though this part was far from the center of the pack, some members should still be lingering around. Along with that, a strange scent filled my senses, making me pick up my pace.

“Tessa?” he whispered.

“Let’s go,” I merely said, running to the clearing. I was hoping that my hunch was wrong. However, the moment my feet stepped on the ground of the clearing, I was afraid I was right.

My home… was ruined. It was similar to what happened to the South, but so much more. It was unlivable.

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15:05 Wed, Sep 24

Chapter 256 Broken Home

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