The General (GXG) (Lesbian Story) (Book Three)

Chapter Eighteen

Brooklyn's POV

If I had to describe the feeling in the room right now using only one word, it would be, awkward.

Really awkward.

It was like no one wanted to say anything in fear of upsetting Laylah, which was more than understandable but the awkwardness that was running through the room was starting to become unbearable. It was more awkward than Laylah and I on our date, and that was saying something.

After a few more minutes of pure silence, Laylah cleared her throat and rubbed her right ear slightly, prompting everyone to focus on her,

"I know that I'm not in the best mental state right now, but I'd prefer if people didn't walk on eggshells around me."

"Apologies." Corinne started, "We just don't want to come across as insensitive towards your feelings."

Laylah gave a small smile, "I understand but I can't hide away from reality forever, as much as Brooklyn would like otherwise."

I raised my hands up in surrender. I have no idea how the conversation managed to shift to me all of a sudden,

"I am merely trying to protect you. As much as I can."

She gave me a knowing look, "I know, and I appreciate it, but I can also protect myself, most of the time anyway."

I nodded in response, letting her know that I understood, and she gave me a smile before turning her attention to Devin and Juno,

"So, I might be the only one that doesn't know why you're here."

Juno shifted slightly in her chair, "Well, first of all, we'd like to give our condolences. I lost my Mum when I was in my teens and I never met my Dad, so I know how it feels to lose someone you love. It does get easier; it just takes time."

Laylah thanked her and wiped a stray tear that had fallen down her cheek. It was upsetting to see her so dejected, but anyone would be in her situation. As her mate, the only thing I could do was let her know that I was here, for however long she wanted me to be,

"We also wanted to let you know that Audrey is pregnant. Word should be spreading round quickly as they made their announcement a couple days ago, but she wanted us to tell you in person."

Everyone gave their congratulations and Devin said she would pass them on when she got back to Dranthoven,

"Devin, I know you didn't travel all this way just to say that so what's going on?"

Devin rubbed the back of her neck nervously. I was glad to know I wasn't the only one that did that,

"We would like to join Laylah and Brooklyn on their journey back to Selestris."

That most definitely got my attention. I sat forward in my chair, "For what reason?"

Juno turned her attention towards me, "After hearing what happened to the castle, we were wondering about how they managed to get a hold of those explosives. While yes, they are sold by us at Reylar Enterprise, we don't just sell them to anyone. They are reserved for those of a high rank, so we want to come and investigate a little further."

I stared at them for a little while. I could understand why they wanted to come but I wasn't happy about it. It seemed like this was turning into a field trip, more so than it already was. However, them tagging along would help in terms of protecting Laylah. It would mean there would be more people to keep watch, which was always handy so I couldn't complain there.

Laylah placed her hand on my thigh, knocking me out of my trance and prompting me to look at her,

"I'm okay with it if you are." She spoke. I briefly looked down at her hand on my thigh before looking back up,