The Legendborn Cycle, #1
Legendborn
by Tracy Deonn
Contents
Chapter 40
Overview
Bree’s discovery about Faye’s death spills into the open when Nick finds her with Sel, creating a painful rupture between Bree, Nick, and the Order. Nick misreads Bree’s closeness with Sel before learning Bree now knows her mother’s death was treated as an accident.
Rather than accept Nick’s comfort or his declaration that he wants and needs her, Bree chooses to leave the Lodge. The chapter marks a decisive emotional break: Bree’s grief, distrust, and sense of betrayal push her away from Nick and the Legendborn world.
Summary
Nick finds Bree crying with Sel standing behind her and Sel’s hand on Bree’s shoulder. Nick immediately suspects Sel has hurt Bree, while Russ and Felicity watch warily. Bree denies that Sel did anything and says she needs to go home, refusing Nick’s offer to drive her and asking Felicity instead.
As Russ goes to get Felicity’s car, Nick keeps pressing Bree for an explanation. Sel tells Nick to let Bree go, using Nick’s familiar name instead of his formal one. Bree and Sel briefly meet eyes, and Nick notices a new, unexplained understanding between them, which deepens Nick’s hurt and confusion.
Bree tries to explain what has devastated her but can only say, “It was just an accident.” Nick first misunderstands, thinking Bree is referring to something between herself and Sel. When Bree clarifies that she means the car, the hospital, and the night of Faye’s death, Nick realizes Bree has learned that her mother’s death was recorded as an accident.
Nick reaches out to comfort Bree, but Bree raises her hands to stop him because accepting his sympathy would overwhelm her. Nick turns his anger back toward Sel, accusing Bree of having discovered the truth with him. Bree apologizes, says everything was a mistake, and backs toward Felicity’s Jeep.
Before leaving, Bree tells Nick she cannot be at the Lodge anymore, and Nick understands she means permanently. Nick pleads with Bree to stay, saying he needs her, would choose her, and wants her if Camlann is coming. Bree rejects that claim, telling Nick, “No. You don’t,” then gets into the car and leaves him behind.
Who Appears
- Bree MatthewsDevastated by Faye’s file, rejects comfort and decides to leave the Lodge.
- Nick DavisMisreads Bree’s distress, learns what she discovered, and begs her to stay.
- Selwyn KaneStands with Bree, denies harming her, and tells Nick to let her go.
- FelicityAgrees to drive Bree away when Bree refuses Nick’s help.
- RussFetches Felicity’s Jeep so Bree can leave the Lodge.