Page 169 of Between Soul and Vessel
But now, here I was, standing in front of someone who adored me. Who lovedallthe messy parts of me—tangles and all.
Voncaredfor me.
He loved me.
Aureliusneverhad.
He’d hated me.
And now I understood the difference.
Hate made you feel small. It stole your worth and drained you of all you were.
Love made you feel big. It taught you your worth and made you feel empowered.
Hate was trauma and tears and broken bones.
Love was healing and happiness and tender touches.
Love gave you courage.
“Von,” I said, my voice soft.
“Yes, my darling?” he asked, working on a section of hair.
“I need to tell you something,” I whispered, my heart quickening. I was ready to tell Von what Aurelius had done to me. I was ready to say the word I had been hiding from—
Rape.
I started out slow. “Do you remember when you asked me why my hands were trembling?”
The brushing stopped for a second then slowly picked back up. “I do.”
“I’m ready to tell you why.”
“Alright.”
I took a shaky, shaky breath, knowing I was going to need it and a thousand more. “When—”
Our door swung open, and the words on my tongue died. Footsteps rushed into our room, then into our bathroom.Folkoln.
“Don’t you know how to knock?” Von snarled at him.
“Knocking is for those with patience. I have none. Besides, it wouldn’t be the first time I’ve walked in on you with a—” Folkoln clamped his mouth shut. His eyes slid to mine, and he reached up to scrub at the back of his neck, offering me an apologetic grin. “Never mind.”
The bond took over, painting my vision red. Now it wasmyturn to snarl at him. “Were you about to saywith another female?”
“No, no.” Folkoln shook his head. He stopped, quirked a brow, took a deep breath, and moaned, “Creator above, your jealousy makes for a tasty little meal. I wonder if your sister would taste the same.”
“Von?” I asked.
“Yes, love?” he replied.
“Give me the brush.” I held out my hand.
He dropped it in my palm. “Aim for his head.”
“Wait. Wait,” Folkoln said, raising his hands, stoppingme just before I was about to chuck it at him. “I come in peace, alright? Actually, Von, I was wondering if I could talk with you.”
