A walked toward the gardens to meet Rachel, frustration gnawed at me.
I’m such an asshole! Fucking idiot! How had I never bothered to learn these things about her? What kind of mate was 17
Looking back, I realized I’d rarely asked Rachel what she liked. I’d just assumed… or decided for her. I hoped it wasn’t too late to start now.
When I reached the garden path, small lanterns illuminated the winding trail through beautiful flowers and fruit trees. High hedges surrounded us, creating a private sanctuary.
Rachel was already there, and her eyes lit up when she saw me, just seeing my girl made my heart involuntarily start racing for her
“You look beautiful tonight,” I said, kissing her softly before handing her a perfect red rose I’d plucked along the way. She brought it to her nose, inhaling its scent.
We walked in comfortable silence for a while. Tonight’s mission: learn Rachel’s preferences.
“When I was a kid,” I began, breaking the silence, “I used to play in the gardens at Ironjaw territory. Once, I stole some fireworks and nearly burned the place down.”
Rachel giggled. “Poor flowers.”
“My mother loved flowers,” she said. “She grew the most beautiful lilies.”
Lilies, I noted mentally, though I wasn’t sure if they were her favorite.
“She built us a secret garden,” Rachel continued, her voice soft with memory. “At the end of the meadow, hidden behind trees and brambles, with a secret entrance. We’d go there to pick flowers and herbs.”
Her expression was wistful. “I loved it there.” Her eyes sparkled as she described reading under the trees while her mother transplanted flowers and hummed sweet melodies.
I recognized the tune she often played on her harp. “Is that the song your mother taught you?” I asked.
Rachel nodded.
“What flowers did you grow in your secret garden?” I asked.
“Oh, all kinds,” she replied. “Mom surrounded our garden with wild roses so no one could find it. There were peonies and lilies and lavender…”
I gently asked, “Which ones are your favorites?”
“Queen Anne’s lace,” she replied immediately.
“Because I love how the delicate white flowers look like little clouds floating above the stems. Mom never called them weeds. She would sit with me in the meadow and encourage me to make wishes. When I’d run my fingers across the lacy blooms, she’d say our prayers were being carried on the breeze, up to the sky where the moon goddess could hear them.”
Her voice was filled with longing, and I could tell how much she missed her mother. I pulled her closer to me.
“After she died, everything changed,” Rachel said. “I never went back to our secret garden. I knew it would wither without her care. So many things I once enjoyed became impossible, That part of my life was erased.
I clenched my fist, angry at what she’d endured.
1/2
Chapter 359
I stopped walking and pulled her head against my chest, embracing her. I’m sorry to hear that./
“It’s okay now,” she said. Back then, I used to dream about meeting you,
Yes, my mate. I dreamed my mate would save me. She added with a playful smile.
I wish I could have met you sooner. Then…” I began.
Rachel teased, “Then my garden might have been set on fire by fireworks.”
I chuckled. “Those days weren’t easy,” she continued, “but during those days, the hope of meeting my mate kept me sane. I dreamed of meeting you, of you rescuing me from my pain.”
I kissed her forehead, my arms encircling her. Rachel nestled against me, breathing slowly.
“You’re safe now. You have me,” I promised.
“I know,” she agreed.
We stood in silence for a moment, Rachel secure in my embrace.
I feel so heartbroken for my girl.
I will definitely give her all my love. I won’t let her down, I promised myself, feeling the determination settle deep in my bones.
She deserved nothing less than my complete devotion, my unwavering support, and my endless affection.
Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.
Summary & Review: By Werewolf
