Page 60 of Satan's Son

“She might not be. You know people change when their memories are wiped.”

“Of course, I know that,” he snapped in a defensive manner. “Which is why I don’t think we should do it at all. The girl won’t say anything; you can be sure of that.”

I hadn’t picked up on it. Not once. But now it was so obvious. Archie liked Addison annoying him.

He didn’t want her to go or change. Which explained why he hadn’t reached out for me when she turned up here empty-handed and alone. He knew she was running, and he was happy to keep her secret.

“My parents won’t settle for less, you and I both know that.” I lowered my voice. “Which is why it has to be done quickly and by me before they realize that the girl I was meant to dispose of three months ago is stillwalking around knowingeverything.”

A look of sorrow came over his face. “Well, I won’t be around when you do it. Seeing the light within their eyes dull as their memories are being sucked away pains me.”

My stomach twisted and turned like it normally did when the thought of losing Addison came up. But I knew it had to be done. For her own safety and mine.

***

“You better have made this worth the walk, Ethan, or I am giving you a dead arm,” Addy threatened while wearing a blindfold.

“I thought it would be romantic to end it where it all began.” I took off her blindfold.

She slowly turned around, looking down the dimly lit alley.

“So, you brought me back to where I died.” She smiled. “You were right; it is kind of romantic. That this is where our love began and now shall end.” Her tone softened as she spoke.

“We both knew it was coming. I can’t be with you now, Addison.” I brushed her black locks from her face. “Just think of all the adventures you have ahead of you and men drooling at your feet for your attention.”

“And just think how much more peaceful your life will be. Your books will stay in order with me gone.” She faked a smile. “I’m going to miss you, Ethan Beast.”

Her words caused something inside me to pinch with pain. I didn’t want to do this. I couldn’t do this to her. I can’t let her go!

As if she could tell I was melting down, she placed her hands on my shoulders, dipping her head up to lock her eyes with mine.

“I give you full permission to stalk, in fact, I encourage it.” She smiled sadly.

Because she didn’t know, and I didn’t have the heart to tell her.

“See you around, kiddo.” I nudged her shoulder while trying to keep my emotions in check.

She shook her head and then engulfed me in a hug. I melted into it, enjoying wrapping my arms around her one last time, touching her one last time.

“I love you, Addison,” I whispered in her ear.

She pulled back, her opal eyes shining. “I love you, too.”

We slowly separated, and I knew what I had to do next.

“So, how does this work, you say some magic words and I forget about Hell and just remember you. Or what?”

I didn’t have the stomach to tell her the truth.

“Just turn around,” I said slowly, and she did. Placing my hands on her hips from behind her, I inhaled her scent one last time. “Then clear your mind, and I’ll do the rest.”

I let go of her and took a step away and began the process. I was thankful that she couldn’t see the tears in my eyes; this would be the most difficult thing I will ever have to do.

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