Page 104 of Villainous Fate

He quoted The Outsiders

He’s thoughtful. He’s selfless. He’s generous.

A tear falls.

He’s everything I could ask for in a partner and a friend.

He just isn’t Deacon. How could I love anyone like I love Deacon?

I set the card down and slowly rip through the paper, wondering what book he chose. As soon as the first hint of the green leatherbound cover peeks through, I drop the book back onto the bed. Both of my hands fly to my mouth.

He bought the first edition.

It's the book I spent years dreaming of but knew I could never afford. I never told anyone about it—not Deacon, not even Fran. I knew it was frivolous to yearn for such an expensive book. I wasn’t materialistic, but the reader in me saw such value in the words of the Divine Comedy.

It’s a classic.

It was my unicorn.

And Marcus bought it.

And Marcus paid all the bills for my house.

And Marcus took a ruined trip and made it a fantastic memory.

And Marcus never asked for anything in return.

Marcus never complained.

Marcus never hesitated to lend a helping hand.

Marcus will make an incredible Alpha.

In that moment, with all the cards on the table, I know what I have to do.

I can’t take his wolf from him.

Even if it costs me Deacon.

I’m accepting my fate.

Chapter 49

Marcus

ThewalkhomefromGrace’s house is excruciating. My wolf wants to run, but if I give in, I will end up right back at her house.

Mate.

The rest of the evening has me locked up in my room, staring at the ceiling, wondering what I’m going to do.

What is Grace going to do?

It’s not only my decision, but the thought of her having to make this choice guts me. I want to take this away from her so she doesn’t have to live with the consequences.

But the thought of rejecting her leaves me unable to breathe.

I don’t want to reject her.

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