Page 8 of My Fated Mate

Finn's concerned frown draws me out of my thoughts, and I force a smile to mask the turmoil churning inside me. "Nothing. Maybe I'm just exhausted from the run earlier," I reply, hoping he'll drop the subject.

But Finn isn't convinced. "I don't believe you, Elowen," he says softly, his voice filled with genuine concern. "I know when something's bothering you."

I meet his gaze, momentarily lost in his warm, amber eyes. Finn is undeniably handsome and beneath his rugged exterior lies a heart of gold, and I'm grateful to have him as a friend.

Shaking my head, I push aside my conflicted thoughts. "I just need some fresh air," I mutter, already making my way towards the exit. "I'll be back in a bit."

Stepping outside into the cool night air, I make my way to the garden, the scent of blooming flowers attracting me. I find a secluded spot to sit, the soft grass cushioning my weary body as I try to calm my racing thoughts.

I can’t marry someone I know nothing about. The idea seems absurd. Yet my father seems determined to go through with it for the sake of the pack.

I would do anything to help my pack, but isn’t there another way to protect us from Dark Moon's attacks?

As I sit in the peaceful solitude of the garden, I vow to find a solution. I may not have all the answers now, but I refuse to let my fate be decided by politics.

With determination in my heart, I begin to devise a plan—a plan that will not only save my pack but also allow me to remain true to myself.

I'm not even two seconds into my plotting when I hear rustling beside me. My heart skips a beat as I turn to see my father emerging from the shadows, his expression grave.

"Elowen," he begins, his voice gentle yet firm. "We need to talk."

I swallow hard, knowing exactly what he's going to say. But that doesn't make it any easier to hear.

As he sits beside me, I can't help but notice the similarities between us—his strong jawline and the way his eyes crinkle at the corners when he smiles. But right now, there's no warmth in his gaze, only determination.

He knows I know.

"What is it, Father?" I ask, trying to keep my voice steady.

He takes my hand in his, his grip firm yet reassuring. "Elowen, I know you overheard our conversation earlier," regret deepens his voice, "and I know you're not happy about the marriage alliance."

I bristle at his words. "You said you didn't care about my wishes," I accuse, unable to keep the hurt out of my voice.

"Elowen, you know that's not true," he says softly. "You're my daughter, and I value you more than anything in this world. But I had to make a difficult decision—one that I hoped would protect our pack."

I want to argue, to lash out at him for putting me in this position. But as I look into his eyes, I see the pain reflected there, and I know he's telling the truth.

"I'm sorry if my words hurt you, Elowen," he continues, his voice heavy with remorse. "But I had to act quickly to prevent the elders from making a decision that could have been even worse for you."

I sigh as I realize the truth in his words. "I understand, Father," I reply softly. "But is there no other way? Can't we find another solution?"

He shakes his head sadly. "I'm afraid not, Elowen. The elders are adamant that this is the only way to ensure our pack's safety."

I close my eyes, feeling defeated. "Then I guess I have no choice but to resign myself to it."

My father's grip tightens on my hand, his silent support offering me strength.

Then, my father surprises me by pulling me into a tight hug. I hesitate for a moment before leaning into him, seeking comfort in his embrace.

For a moment, we simply hold each other, the warmth of his presence soothing my turmoil. "I only wish your mother were still here to see you now," he murmurs, his voice thick with emotion.

I smile sadly, remembering my beautiful mother with her auburn hair and striking green eyes—features I inherited from her. She had always been my rock, my source of strength and guidance, and I missed her every day.

"I miss her too, Father," I reply quietly, my voice catching in my throat. But even as I speak the words, I can't help but feel a surge of pride at the thought of my mother watching over me from wherever she may be.

With a nod, my father releases me from his embrace, and his eyes meet mine with a mixture of love and sadness.

And as we stand together in the moonlit garden, I know that no matter what challenges lie ahead, I won't face them alone.

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