Page 148 of Psycho Pack

I exaggerate my own breathing, slow and steady, until he starts to match my rhythm. The tremors wracking his massive frame gradually subside, though tension still coils beneath the surface, ready to snap at any moment.

When I'm sure he's calmed enough to hear me, I ask gently, "Do you want me to bring you some food? You don't have to go back in there if it's too much."

Wraith leans back a little and his hands come up to cover mine where they still rest against his face. He shakes his head vehemently, then lets go to sign.

Stay with you. Protect.

My heart swells even as worry gnaws at my insides. Always so concerned with my safety, even when he's the one falling apart.

"I'm okay," I assure him. "Nothing's going to happen to me here. And I don't mind staying out here with you if that's what you need. We could find a quiet place to eat, just the two of us."

But Wraith is already shaking his head again, more forcefully this time. His hands move in sharp, agitated gestures.

No. You go. Be safe. Have fun.

I frown, not liking where this is going. "Wraith, I'm not leaving you out here alone. Either we both go back in, or we both stay out here. I'm fine with anything, as long as I'm with you." I take a deep breath. "Honestly, I'm having trouble, too. This dinner is… a lot, isn't it?"

He stares at me for a long moment, those intense blue eyes boring into mine. I can see the conflict raging behind them. The need to protect warring with his own fears.

He gives a long, hard sigh.

Then, with aching slowness, his hands move to the edges of his scarf.

My breath catches. "Are you sure?"

For you,he signs, and my heart breaks a little.

He nods once, a sharp jerk of his head, and tugs the silky fabric away from his face. The scarf catches slightly on one of his sharp teeth, tearing a little, and he stares down at it with clear misery.

"We'll get you a new one," I say gently, leaning in to kiss his scarred jaw. "I get the feeling they're not short on scarves."

He nods, relaxing slightly.

I lead him back toward the dining hall, our footsteps echoing off pristine marble walls. With each step, I can feel Wraith's grip tightening, see the way his jaw clenches. But he doesn't falter. Doesn't try to turn back.

I'm so proud of him, it's helping me forget how nervous I am.

We pause just outside, and I turn to face him. He's clearly having trouble looking me in the eyes, choosing to stare at the marble floor instead. Maybe all the mirrors and reflective surfaces are bothering him. He flinches as I reach up and cup his scarred face in my hands.

"I'm right here with you," I murmur. "We can leave anytime you need to, okay? Don't forget, I won't mind taking a break at all."

He nods jerkily, then leans down to press his forehead against mine. The familiar gesture grounds us both.

"Ready?" I ask softly.

Another nod, firmer this time.

I take a deep breath and push the doors open.

Chapter

Twenty-Six

WRAITH

The heavy doors swing open.

Sound of the stone grating makes my sharp teeth itch.