Love Thy Shadow, Satan (LTSS) [#Wattys2018]

Chapter 40 - Mute?

Faith's POV

Although I only met him a few minutes ago, I was feeling an instant connection - as if I've known him all my life. As if his presence has never left my side. As if he's been, and always will be, the only consistency in my unstable life.

And yet, he stayed silent.

Not a single syllable left his mouth - but he made movement, which seemed to force me to relax enough to let go of the air I had involuntarily caged in my lungs.

Slightly dizzy with the quick exhale, I did nothing but stare in front of me - towards the direction my mate stood - as I swayed slightly forward.

I felt his heartbeat hitch at this uncoordinated movement - a sign of worry. He worried for me, most likely believing I was ready to faint - but when that didn't happen he retreated a step back. Most likely to force himself not to run to my aid.

Why?

He was there, right in front of me... I could sense his presence standing 2 steps away, directly in front - facing me.

Why won't he speak?

I can feel his feet in contact with the ground, as are mine - but his face and body are a blur to me. Although his movements help me to "see" him better, he's kept mostly rigid - making it harder for me to make out his physical appearance.

Why won't he make a move?

It was as if he knew what I was waiting for - what I was waiting for him to do. For him to slip up and make a strong and distinguished move so I could find out his physical appearance, and be one step closer to my mate.

After endless minutes of deafening silence, I decided it would be best for me to make the first move. So, inhaling and exhaling deeply for comfort, I waited a minute longer to phrase my thoughts correctly.

"I just want you to know that no matter who you are, or what you backstory is, I'll take you with all your baggage."

This made him stiffen more, if possible - but I continued, as if I hadn't noticed him tense.

"I, The Shadow Alpha - Faith White - wholeheartedly accept you as my mate. Till death do us part."

I felt his happiness at my words, but he didn't say anything.

However, he nodded.

In confirmation? Acceptance, maybe? But why won't he speak, still? His silence is riddling my anxiety.

I want - no, need - to hear my mates voice.

Just one sentence would be enough. Maya whined, uncharacteristically. It seems I'm not the only one acting off today. Accept us. Please!

I took a step forward, and just as he was about to retract I begged for the first I could remember, "Don't move." For extra precaution, I hesitantly added, "Please?" In a low whisper.

I think the neediness in my voice made him stay glued in position - ensuring me the mate bond was working in my favour. It was almost as if he was bound to not intentionally hurt me. He couldn't move away if the cost was my tears.