Chapter 78 SECOND TIME
Percival
That’s when I noticed the tears welling up in her eyes as she looked up at me. “Because I want you to see that a mistake doesn’t define a wolf. Your father made a mistake, but it didn’t make him a bad wolf. He’s been a wonderful mate, a caring father, and a strong pack leader. He regretted that mistake, but unlike you, the outcome didn’t change his life. It could have—greatly—if I had confessed. But I didn’t. Just because you made a mistake with Tatiana doesn’t mean you’re a bad wolf.”
Her voice was gentle yet firm, filled with the wisdom of experience. “Maybe Edeline isn’t meant to be with you, even though she’s your mate... Maybe the moon had a change of heart and put Tatiana in your life. Or maybe she put Tatiana in your life as a lesson so that your bond with Edeline could grow stronger. I’m not sure. But I do know that mating with Edeline is the best thing you can do for your pack. She will come around because she is your destined mate. It may take time, and she may harbor resentment because of your bond with Tatiana, especially since she’s pregnant. But do you really think that pup can survive with only a half bond between true mates? Because I don’t.” She smiled softly, her eyes filled with a mother’s understanding.
Every word she said was logical, rational. I needed to remind myself that I am not a bad wolf, and that my wolf had acted with the right intentions. Despite the poor timing, it had felt right. My feelings for Edeline are strong—she is my mate. But I also feel a strong urge to protect Tatiana because she’s carrying my pup. If the moon were to take that pup away... then there would be no bond left with Tatiana. My mom believed this... and deep down, I felt the same.
“Thank you, Mom,” I whispered, my voice thick with gratitude. Leaning in, I pressed my cheek against hers, savoring the warmth and comfort she offered. She sighed softly, her hands wrapping around mine, squeezing them gently—a silent gesture of her unwavering love and support, and I was grateful to share the burden she had carried in her heart for so long.
“So Dad actually did that? I can’t believe it… he’s always been so strict about relationships within the pack and waiting for your true mate!” I leaned back, shaking my head in disbelief, feeling a pang of disappointment for my poor mom.
She chuckled softly, a sound filled with both humor and understanding. “That’s exactly why he’s so strict about it. His opposition comes from his own mistake. He’s determined to keep others from making the same one. But just because you made a mistake doesn’t mean it’s the end,” she said, tilting her head as her dark hair cascaded over her crystal blue eyes. “But remember, what I’ve told you is between us. This is our secret, my son. And please, don’t ever question your father about this. He was once just like you—young and inexperienced.” She smiled, reaching out to affectionately tousle my hair.
I couldn’t help but smile back, the tension easing slightly. “I won’t. I promise.”
Edeline’s pain had temporarily subsided, giving her some respite. Her wolf seemed exhausted, likely drained from experiencing the same intense emotions as her human. I could still sense her presence, the pull of our bond. She wanted me close, but it wasn’t what Edeline, the human, wanted.
And for now, I would respect that.
I stood, wrapped in the warmth of the blanket, and helped Mom as she rose to her feet. We embraced, our cheeks touching as she imparted her comforting presence onto me. “Everything will fall into place for you, my strong and capable child. I’ll go and inform your father about your progress. I love you, my dear son,” she whispered, her voice as gentle and tender as always.
“I love you too, Mom. And thank you,” I replied with a soft smile, grateful for her willingness to share her burdens and comfort me.
Curiosity flickered within me about the identity of the woman my father had been with all those years ago. But I knew she would keep that secret until the day she met the moon.
“Goodnight.” She offered a slight wave before gently closing the painted brown door behind her.
As I stood alone in the dimly lit den, my thoughts drifted to the recent days I had spent with Edeline. A strong urge welled up within me to check if she had left me a letter today. I needed to hear her words, to understand what she felt before I caused the catastrophe—before I hurt her so deeply.
The intensity of that urge only grew stronger.
Realizing I was still undressed, I carefully wrapped the blanket around myself before stepping outside into the chilly night air. As the moon cast its gentle radiance over the landscape, I let myself transform into a wolf, blending seamlessly with the softly illuminated surroundings. Across the lake, the bonfire’s glow was still visible, a small beacon in the distance.
My wolf’s bones shifted for the second time that night. He stood tall and powerful, driven to madness by the presence of Edeline’s wolf across the lake. He yearned to be with her, but I remained resolute, and he understood.
We would give her the time she needed.
As I communicated with my wolf, he understood our destination. There would be no stops along the way.
We moved swiftly through the forest behind my cabin, ascending the backside of the mountain along a path different from the one Edeline usually chose. I didn’t see her in the treehouse, so I pressed on, allowing my wolf to navigate the trees and climb the mountainside with speed and precision. The strain in our legs was palpable, but we pushed through. Upon reaching the summit, we entered the clearing from the rear, and I quickly transitioned back to my human form. Without delay, I ascended the treehouse, urgency driving my every step. I needed to read her words.