NOVEL NEXT Chapter 8: Isn't your fault
Drew
Sitting across from me is my father, Alpha Damien. "So, Felicity is your mate; I heard that from your mother," he said. I nodded in response, feeling a sense of regret about the situation.
Years ago, when she bit me, I realized something was off when the wound didn't heal. After visiting the native pack, I discovered that Felicity had marked me.
The happiness I felt was overwhelming; I had genuine feelings for her back then, before everything changed. The reason I distanced myself from her, stemming from an incident a decade ago, continues to haunt me. No matter how hard I try, I can't shake the guilt that washes over me whenever I see her, knowing the consequences of my actions.
My father understands why I've kept my distance from Felicity, which is evident in his expression. "When are you going to tell her?" he asked, concern evident in his voice. I sighed, reluctant to share the truth. I fear she would despise me, and I wouldn't be able to bear it, especially since we are both marked by each other. "After the mating ceremony, when she is completely mine," I replied. My father cleared his throat before continuing, "You know that after that, nothing can separate you two except death. Your mother mentioned it was the bite of infinity, but that doesn't mean your mate won't resent you if she finds out."
My father is known for his straightforwardness; he never sugarcoats his words. However, his honesty does not change the reality of our situation. Despite the bond we share, it won't prevent her from harboring resentment towards me. He continues, "Drew, you understand that what happened isn't your fault, right?" I wish he would stop reiterating that point because deep down, I believe it is my fault. If I had been more careful, Felicity's life would be different; she wouldn't be feeling this loneliness. I empathize with her pain, and it weighs heavily on me. Do I even deserve her as my mate? The moon goddess seems unkind, yet I feel I am even harsher because my love for her is so profound that I cannot let her go. She is my mate and my everything, and even if she despises me, I will endure it, as long as she remains by my side.
I have made up my mind. "I understand your insinuations, Father, but the truth is that if I hadn't acted as I did, things would have turned out differently. Therefore, I accept the blame. I will speak to her after the mating ceremony, and whatever follows, I will embrace it fully. It is my duty as the future alpha of the Crimson Pack and her mate." My father nodded in agreement. "It will be as you wish, Drew. I hope she doesn't resent you when she learns the truth. Remember, it's not your fault, my son."
Felicity
Why hasn't he returned yet? I clutched my pillow tightly as I waited for him. I had lunch alone in this room, following Drew's instructions to stay inside, but honestly, I was feeling quite bored. I tried to close my eyes, thinking that perhaps sleeping would be the best option. Just then, the door swung open, and Drew walked in. I quickly sat up in bed upon seeing him. He approached and sat down beside me. "Well, that took a while. I thought you might have left me," I said, pouting, which made him laugh. "Our mating ceremony is scheduled for the next two full moons," he informed me, meaning it was just eight days away. Jane seemed to like the idea, but isn't it a bit too soon?
"I wonder where we left off," he said playfully. Instinctively, I pulled back, feeling the heat from his intense gaze. My body was responding to him. "I thought you mentioned it would be after the mating ceremony?" I reminded him, but he crawled closer on the bed, took my hand, and positioned himself over me. This was the second time today, and I felt a rush of desire. "There are other things we can explore besides the obvious, Felicity," he said, and my eyes widened in anticipation of his intentions. Whatever he had in mind, I knew I would enjoy it, so I urged him, "Stop talking and take action." That was all the encouragement he needed; he captured my lips, and I kissed him back with fervor.