Chapter 40: Letting go

Erik's POV

"Hey," I said while sitting beside Melissa.

She looked up at me and smiled. "I thought you'll avoid me like you always do," She said.

"I never avoided you," I said.

"You always do. If there is something you can't accept, you'll avoid me," She said, looking at her hands.

I sighed and looked at her sincerely. "It's just too early for me, perhaps waiting for a year?"

I asked to hope for a different decision. Melissa took my hand and held it tightly. "I will be fine here, and Rick will surely protect me with all he got. I am really happy here. The pack is respectful and always makes sure that I feel cozy. You don't have to worry now, I got Rick, and you got Clara. We are not alone now. You can finally let one of your burdens go, brother," She said, smiling sadly at me.

I couldn't stop my tears from falling. She isn't the kid, and I think this is the first time I have looked at her as an adult. I always saw her as before, the snotty little kid who always scolds me.

I squeezed