Chapter 19
358words
Werewolf circles mentioned it casually, with smug remarks. "Inevitable, really." "Just a human plaything. Nothing serious."
Soon enough, no one spoke of our relationship at all.
After my recovery, I began packing my things.
Alaric happened to be home that day.
I packed while he sat silently in the living room.
Alaric had always felt indebted to me. Over the years, he'd showered me with luxury goods. The bedroom floor was piled high with designer items.
I took nothing.
When I emerged from the bedroom, I noticed documents on Alaric's desk.
His voice hoarse.
"These are properties I purchased in Brighton."
He handed me a bank card.
"Password's your birthday."
"If you ever need anything, call me. Anytime."
"If you don't want to, call James. He's at the southern branch."
He paused.
"I'll drive you to the airport in a bit."
I didn't agree. Didn't take them.
He studied my face for a long moment, then apologized again.
I shook my head.
He owed me nothing.
On the contrary, he'd given me more than enough.
Since childhood, I'd grown accustomed to abandonment.
My grandparents had despised me for being born female.
My mother called me cursed, claiming I'd stolen my twin brother's chance at life.
My father had loathed me on sight, once suggesting I sleep in the dog kennel.
I was well-practiced at being unwanted.
Until I met Alaric.
He'd picked me up and brushed away the dirt.
However it had happened.
That trampled wildflower had survived the harsh winter because of him, had glimpsed the spring sunshine.
Before getting into the taxi, I looked back once.
Alaric stood at the second-floor window.
Backlit, his silhouette barely visible.
That brilliant light behind him—just like that afternoon in Year 10 when he'd crashed through greenhouse glass, bringing moonlight and Alpha fury, like some avenging angel.
Thus, ten years of acquaintance.
Hereafter, vast mountains and endless waters between us.
We would never meet again in this lifetime.
I closed the car door.
Wishing him peace.
Wishing him everything his heart desired.
