Athena wished she could tear the necklace from her throat, scrub Kraven's touch from her skin and crawl back into the safety of herself… the self that didn't belong to anyone.
But deep down, a small, betraying whisper reminded her… she wasn't safe anymore. Not from them… and not from herself.
A knock startled her. "Athena?"
Athena stood then unlocked the door for her. Gina stepped inside before she could compose herself. Her playful smile from earlier faltered when she caught sight of her pale face and trembling hands.
"What happened?" Gina asked softly, stepping closer. "Did he… did Alpha Kraven…?"
"No," Athena cut in quickly, her voice sharp, too sharp. She forced herself upright, brushing her hair back from her face. "I'm just tired. That's all."
Gina tilted her head, studying her. For a moment it looked like she might push but instead she crossed the room and began adjusting things on the dresser, as if giving Athena space.
