"The four of us have always and will always be friends, no matter what." Damon said, raising his beer can.
"Always." I whispered, raising my mug as we clinked our drinks.
Alejandro… Please wake up.
We sat there, trying to make small talk, or just falling into silence and comforting one another, huddled together for warmth. I stayed for an hour but the pain within me to go to him could no longer be satiated.
I excused myself and headed to the pack hospital.
I was halfway there, using my powers to illuminate the path. The leaves in the trees rustled and I felt a shiver rush down my spine. I wasn’t alone. I spun around, scanning the area.
"I’ve come for my reward." A quiet voice said from behind me.
My heart thumped as I turned only to see Janaina standing in the shadows. I looked at her, feeling anger at the same time. If she had so easily gotten here now, why hadn’t she helped us?
"You could have helped us." I said quietly.
How had she gotten past patrol? Witches were indeed dangerous if they wanted to be. I understood people's fears, but I still hoped that one day there would be peace between our kind.
"I’ve told you before, I dislike your kind." She said, holding her hand out.
So she had come for her necklace, I reached into my pocket and took it out.
"He removed it from her neck before she died… He fulfilled his promise." I said softly.
"So, He didn’t make it." She said, motioning for me to throw it.
I did, and she caught it. At one point I would have wanted to know what was so important about that pendant? But I no longer cared.
"Can you not help?" I asked, trying not to pay attention to how unbothered she sounded. Despite the fact it stung.
"There’s nothing I can do, nor am I willing to. This is the last time we shall meet, daughter of Selene."
I said nothing as she turned and vanished into the woods.
I looked at the passing buildings. Some still had lights on, whilst others were completely dark. Would anyone remember those that had lost their lives? Would they remember a few months or years down the line?
Was anyone worried about their king, who was known as ruthless and cold-hearted? Would anyone remember his sacrifice? In the end, no one cared.
I didn't care if I sounded bitter. It hurt.
I continued on my way, my heart shattering a little more. With each step, it felt harder to breathe. I broke into a run, rushing through the hospital halls until I pulled open his door. Rayhan jumped, he had seemingly been dosing off in the armchair.
"Sorry." I whispered.
He shook his head, giving me a small sad smirk.
"Not at all… no changes." He said, answering the question he knew I’d ask.
For the last two days, Rafael and I have taken turns being here. Rayhan had come only last night and was returning home tomorrow.
"He’ll get better." He said quietly.
I looked at him in the dim light, barely able to make out his eyes.
"I hope so." I whispered.
"I know the timing might not be the best, but congrats on the baby." He said, flashing me a wink.