Chapter 2

Mom was shocked and delighted to hear my words.

She'd never approved of Derek, but she knew how deeply I loved him.

If I wasn't completely broken, I would never give up so easily.

Dad was the Alpha of Shadowclaw pack and had never been optimistic about our relationship either. He spoke up.

"Since you've decided to break up, make it clear to Derek."

"Part ways on good terms."

I swallowed the bitterness in my heart and shook my head.

Just last week, while I was hospitalized.

Moira posted on social media.

[A spontaneous trip. This entire journey sponsored by Derek.]

In the photos.

Two suitcases, one black and one pink, side by side.

I recognized it immediately.

That black suitcase was the limited edition celebrity model I'd given Derek for his birthday this year.

I called to confront him.

Derek was dismissive.

"Moira's been feeling down lately. I'm just taking her out to clear her head."

"She's Vivian's sister. I have an obligation to take care of her."

From the other end of the phone.

Moira's voice came through at just the right moment.

"Derek, can you grab me a towel?"

Derek responded smoothly.

Finally, as if to comfort me or justify his actions:

"Clara, if it weren't for you, Vivian wouldn't have died. What I'm doing now is just helping you atone for your sins."

My heart felt like it had been stabbed, the pain suffocating.

Even now, he still stubbornly insists that I was responsible for Vivian's death.

Then why did he even agree to date me?

He's been torturing me for three years!

But all my questions died in my throat before I could voice them.

I stared at the red notification on the screen.

My vision blurred.

Derek was afraid I'd disturb their trip, so he blocked me!

His beta warrior relayed his message to me.

"Tell Clara to stop making a scene. This trip is important for Moira's mental health. She's been emotionally unstable."

"When I get back, I'll propose to her as promised."

But he was wrong.

No one waits in the same place forever.