Page 94 of The Forbidden Mate

It was the truth. We all wanted the same thing—a better world for the future generation. Peace, prosperity, safety, hope, and unity. That’s what the Contention was really about. That’s what I had to remember. This wasn’t about me or even about Garrett.

Still, while my heart was happy about Kayden’s news, it was still heavy with the prospect of Garrett having to choose a mate looming just around the corner. I wasn’t sure anything would be able to change that, even if it was for the good of the packs. I loved him, and love wasn’t always rational.

I hugged Kayden once more, pushing those thoughts away. “Congratulations. I’m truly so happy for you.”

My best friend had her happily ever after. Maybe one day, if I was lucky, I’d find some happiness of my own.

* * *

I wokeup extra early the next morning, wanting plenty of time to pull myself together before I had to go downstairs to see Garrett and Elizabeth off on their home visit. They would be gone all day, spending time with Elizabeth’s family and pack. These last two dates were the most important—the ones where Garrett would really see what life with each woman could be like—and I had barely slept just thinking about it.

The miracle of makeup and eye drops almost fully disguised my puffy, red eyes, but if anyone looked too closely, they’d know I’d been crying, so I opted to wear large round sunglasses as an added precaution.

The sun was still low on the horizon when I made my way outside. I was the first one out other than the driver who would escort Garrett and Elizabeth to the tarmac for their flight. Sitting down on a bench to the side of the wide entry steps, I stared at the ocean, watching the sunlight glimmer off its surface. It was peaceful this morning, calm.

Despite the pleasant breeze, I felt cold inside. After they left, I needed to work on the proposal ceremony. I was running far behind, but I couldn’t bring myself to face it. I felt as if I was preparing for a funeral rather than a proposal.

Laughter caught my attention, and I turned to see Garrett and Elizabeth walking out the front doors together. They were both smiling, Elizabeth’s head tossed back, likely laughing at something witty Garrett had said. An assistant plus two enforcers followed behind them. I stood as they neared me, forcing a smile.

“Good morning. Are you both ready for your day?”

Elizabeth gave me a friendly smile, though was that a hint of wariness there? Or maybe concern? I hoped she wasn’t aware of what had been going on between Garrett and me.

“Good morning, Jessica.” Garrett’s voice was low, restrained almost. I’d never heard him so reserved.

“I’m going to wait in the car,” Elizabeth said, slipping away before I could say anything.

I glanced at Garrett, who wasn’t paying her any attention, his eyes locked on me. “What was that about? I need to give her last minute instructions.”

A faint smile pulled at Garrett’s lips. “I think you can let it slide this time.” Then he grew serious, stepping closer and placing a hand on my elbow. “Listen, Jessica. I know we didn’t leave things on a good note last night, but I—”

“I meant what I said, Garrett.” I took a step back, slipping my arm from his grasp.

He pressed his lips together in a tight, resigned smile. “I know. I just wanted to tell you that I respect your decision. It was wrong for me to ask you when you deserve more. So much more.”

My lips parted, but I had no idea what to say to that. Garrett leaned in, pressing a soft kiss on my cheek. Sadness clouded his eyes as he said, “Goodbye, Jessica.”

Then he was walking toward the waiting vehicle and Elizabeth. He closed the door without looking back.

I stood there long after they left, empty inside. That goodbye had felt so final, even though I knew he’d be home tonight. He’d been so… resigned.

My chest squeezed tight as his words really hit home. He was accepting what I’d said last night. Respecting my wishes. Taking me at my word when I said we couldn’t be together.

I struggled to breathe, moving back to sit at the bench when my legs wobbled. It was what I’d wanted. I wouldn’t be his mistress. I’d been the one to walk away last night. But watching him leave with Elizabeth this morning made it all too real. Whatever we had been to each other, it was over now.

* * *

Garrett and Elizabethdidn’t return until close to midnight. I was sitting in a secluded garden, watching the moon reflect on the water as I sipped a glass of wine. I hadn’t been able to sleep—something that was becoming an exhausting habit.

The car drove into the driveway, but I remained hidden in the shadows of the garden as Garrett and Elizabeth climbed from the car. Their voices drifted on the breeze.

“I knew my family would love you, but this went even better than I expected.” I watched as Elizabeth placed a hand on Garrett’s chest. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen my father smile so much.”

Garrett chuckled. “Your family is very nice.”

“It’s been a long day,” Elizabeth said. “So nice to be home.”

My gut twisted as Elizabeth linked her arm to Garrett’s, and they strolled up the path. She already considered this her home? A wave of nausea rose up as I thought about seeing her around the estate on a daily basis, by Garrett’s side, living in his apartment and sleeping in his bed.

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