Alyssa's POV
This is going to be tougher than I thought but I was willing to do whatever it takes.
I buried my face in Ethan's chest sobbing. My heart was burning from within. This man treated me like a pile of trash. Rejected me publicly yet here I was still in love with him. I hate myself for still liking him but I can't help it.
Ethan gave me enough time to pour out my heart. He didn't say a word, he just stood there with his hands wrapped around my shoulder. When I had my fill, he sat me down and consoled me.
I lay my head on Marcus's thigh, surrounded by the peaceful serenity of the garden forest. My eyes are fixated on the beautiful plants that surround us - Carnations, Azaleas, Chrysanthemums, Dahlias, and so many more. Each one is unique in its way, each one representing something different.
The Carnations, with their delicate petals and sweet fragrance, symbolize love and admiration. As I gaze at them, I can't help but think of Marcus and the love that we shared. It was a love that grew stronger with each passing day, and I felt so grateful for having him in my life. Even though he hurt me the moments we shared were beautiful.
The Azaleas, with their vibrant colors and stunning beauty, represent passion and enthusiasm. They remind me of the fire that burns within me, the drive and determination that pushes me to chase my dreams and live life to the fullest.
The Chrysanthemums, with their bold and striking appearance, symbolizes strength and resilience. They remind me that even in the face of adversity, I have the power to overcome anything that comes my way. They remind me that I am strong, capable, and worthy of all the good things that life has to offer. This reminded me of one of my numerous dreams.
And then there are the Dahlias, with their intricate patterns and captivating beauty. They represent creativity and individuality, reminding me that it's important to embrace my uniqueness and let my true self shine as I was told by the seer.
As I take in the beauty of these plants, I feel a sense of calm wash over me. My troubled mind finds peace in this serene setting, and I can't help but smile unconsciously. It's moments like these that remind me of the simple joys in life, the things that truly matter.
I turn my head to look at Ethan and he smiles down at me, his eyes filled with compassion and concern. At this moment, I feel so grateful for his presence in my life. He is my rock, my support system, and my best friend.
Together, we sat in silence, the only sounds around us are the gentle rustling of leaves and the chirping of birds. It's a moment of pure tranquility, a moment that I will cherish forever.
As I closed my eyes and took a deep breath, I felt a sense of gratitude wash over me. Gratitude for the beauty of nature, for the love that surrounds me, and for the simple yet profound moments that make life worth living.
In this garden forest, surrounded by the beauty of nature, I feel a sense of peace and contentment that I have never felt before. And for that, I am truly grateful.
"I am sorry he made you cry. " Ethan said breaking the silence.
"You don't have to worry you will be fine.
You will be okay here." I came back as soon as I heard that he was there. I knew this would happen so I rushed back but I guess I was too late. " He said as he caressed my hair with his finger.
"It will never happen again. As long as you have me you will never know sorrow."
I found his words strange. The way he was playing with my hair and the sudden nervousness on his face was new. I had no clue what this was about.
"Ethan, I called out, are you okay?" I asked.
He smiled faintly "To be honest with you Alyssa. I am not". I sat up facing him with worry evident on my face.
" What is wrong Ethan? I ask genuinely concerned.
"I am sick in the heart" My heart yearns for something. But I am scared. I am scared of going for it for fear of losing it. "
I couldn't understand a word." What do? You mean I asked dumbfounded.
He held my hand tightly for some minutes and said, "Alyssa you are one of a kind. You are special, you taught me many important lessons about life. I will not forget this"
He stared into my eyes and I smiled at him. "Common Ethan, I should be the one saying this. You have been there for me. You and the plants are the only reason life is still worth living for me.
"Let us be best friends forever," Ethan said. "We already are" I assured him.
"So tell me, what do you think about Marcus? I know I said I don't want him anymore but I think he is truly sorry".
The truth is, I still think about him, I hate that my heart still feels this way for him but I can't help it." I confessed.
Ethan is someone I don't hide anything from. He always knows what to do or say to bring me out of distress.
"Do you think I should give him another chance?" I asked
He thought long and hard before he finally replied. "Do you still love him?"
"I guess I still do" I replied reluctantly
"Then maybe you should. Everybody deserves a second chance after all."
He smiled at me and I smiled back." But if he breaks your heart again I will nail-hang him" he said and we both laughed.
It's been a while since we had a hearty laugh like this. It's been one tragedy to another. This year has not been easy on Ethan and his pack members. I was happy to see him recover from the shock of his friend's death.
We spent the rest of the evening talking about exciting events of the past and the future including the forthcoming inter-region competition.
Everyone has been talking about it. The air is filled with preparation for the great event.
The Annual Inter-Pack Hunting Challenge and the Annual Inter-Pack Wrestling are the two major and most important events in our region after The blood moon ritual.
Different Packs from across the region gather at an agreed-upon location for the challenge which is governed by certain rules. The judge's are usually elderly people who were once champions of the game and alphas of various packs some of which are not from this region.
The winners will advance to the next level to represent the region at the inter-region level.
Rumor has it that this year's wrestling challenge will be hosted by the Red Hill's pack. That is Marietta's pack.
Ethan is already insisting that we will go together but I fear I might bump into Marrietta and Marcus.
I have forgiven Marcus but I wasn't ready to meet him just yet and especially not with Marietta.