Finished, I placed the phone back on the table, feeling utterly drained. I lay down, closing my eyes to the rising anger and hurt that washed over me like a tidal wave.
Seven years I’d stood by Derrick’s side, believing we had a future together, a family to build. Now, he was tearing it all apart. The pain was unbearable, but beneath it, I wasn’t just an abandoned mate; I am the Alpha’s daughter. I would not allow anyone, especially Derrick, to make a mockery of me and my bloodline.
Moments later, Derrick came out of the bathroom, his phone in hand. He glanced at me, and for a fleeting second, his face softened. But then his phone buzzed, and his expression changed, brightening as he answered it. He stepped out onto the balcony, speaking in a gentle tone, his face filled with guilt mixed with eagerness.
From my spot on the bed, I watched him through the cracked door, unable to hear his words but seeing his smile.
When he returned to the bedroom, he placed a hand on my shoulder. “Charlotte, I have to step out for an urgent project with the pack. I won’t be long.”