Chapter 60

Ashton

Dearest moon goddess, I know I’ve been a bad person, but how long should I suffer? I’m so mentally tired that it’s not even funny.

Today, after the longest meeting with the elders, I saw Seth and Blair at the store. I don’t care about them being happy, but what broke me was that Gwyneth made eye contact with me and reached out her arms, almost as if she wanted me to hug her.

How am I supposed to ignore that and pretend everything is fine? Seeing her so sad and being unable to hold her broke me.

“Ashton?”

I look up from the bathtub. Lara is looking at me funny.

“Sorry,” I say. “Did you say something?”

“I asked if the water was still smoking hot.”

“No... it’s perfect,” I hand her a tired smile. I’m incredibly lost, yet I’m hoping she won’t see through my facade. No one should be allowed to see me this vulnerable. I’m the Alpha of my pack, not some weakling in need of a hug.

…even if a hug sounds wonderful right now.

“Ashton, you’re shivering.”

“Not because of the water…