Chapter 14
He nodded, saying without hesitation, “Yes, from the first time I saw you on the playground, I knew you were my mate. But since you were a year younger, I waited quietly for a year until you turned eighteen and your wolf awakened before I dared to approach you.”
“But you probably don’t remember, you were so focused on your studies.
“Do you recall the time you were harassed by some rogues?
“I used to follow you every day, only going home once I saw you safely inside. That incident gave me the perfect chance to play the role of an hero.”
Alpha Derick smiled, then looked at me with deep sadness.
“You are the only woman I have ever loved in my life.”
After the smile faded, his expression was one of sorrow.
“I’m so sorry for all the injustices you’ve suffered over the years.
“I’ve always been meticulous and sought perfection in the pack and in life, but I owe you and Hadley so much.
“I truly wish I could go back and relive our life together.”
At this, Alpha Derick’s eyes were once again filled with profound sadness and guilt.
I looked at him, remaining silent.
“Eileen.”
Alpha Derick’s voice had grown much weaker, its strength almost gone.
“My time is short. Though I know my sins are unforgivable, I still want to ask.
“Will you forgive me?”
He gazed deeply at me, his eyes reflecting a mix of confusion and longing, but no other emotions.
I looked at him in silence for a long while.
Finally, I shook my head and said, “No.”
The last glimmer of hope in Alpha Derick’s eyes vanished completely.
He forced a smile, “I’m sorry.”
As he spoke, two tears fell from the corners of his eyes.
He apologized one last time.
Then Alpha Derick’s heart ceased to beat.
He left this world forever.
The Gildon family rushed in, their cries heart–wrenching. I silently left the Gildon villa amidst the wailing.
Alpha Derick’s life had ended.
My own life was just beginning anew.