Rejected, Abused, I Fall for the Forbidden Alpha (by Riley Scott) novel Chapter 201

Chapter 201

“It’s nothing,” he muttered, refusing to meet my eyes.

I folded my arms across my chest and shook my head firmly.

“It’s not nothing if it’s affecting you this badly,” I said exhaling and eying him intensely, “wer’re family Damien. Whatever’s troubling you, you can tell me,” I insisted, “I’ll be there for you, no questions asked big brother. Just let me in,” I pleaded, “I can share the burden if nothing else. I won’t even tell father if that’s what you want. 1 ust can’t bear for there to be secrets between us. Don’t shut me out,” I said as he flushed and began to look guilty.

“I just,” he breathed out, “I’m finding it hard to come to turns with it, that’s all.”

“Come to terms with what? Everybody has noticed you’re acting differently. That you’re not the same as you usually are. We’re concerned,” I added, unfolding my arms and putting a gentle hand on his shoulder.

“It’s nothing to be worried about. I just have to make a choice that’s all and it’s a difficult one.”

“Are you thinking about leaving your pack?” I gasped.

He laughed.

“No, not that kind of choice. I would never leave the Shadow Pack or abandon father. It’s not that kind of decision, it’s more personal,” he muttered, “and I’m not sure how you or anybody else would react to it.”

“I love you Damien. I won’t judge you for any decision you make. You know that. I care about you and what you need. I just want you to be happy,” I insisted, “and if you need help, I’ll always be there.”

He sighed.

“What if I told you that this is because I might have found my mate,” he divulged and I instantly perked right up, happiness taking over me.

“You found your mate?” I almost squealed, “I can’t believe it. When did you realize?”

“I felt it when were on the grounds fighting against the hunters,” he said tightly.

I frowned. He was acting peculiar. Like he wasn’t happy about it.

“That’s not their fault. A second chance mate is rare, if they are your mate Damien than it’s meant to be,” I explained softly. “You’re overthinking it.”

He gave a bitter laugh that took me aback. He looked so cynical it took my breath away.

“I don’t think so. I think my mind is clear where this is concerned. I would have rejected her already but I know how painful severing the mate bond can be,” he said irritably. “Maybe it would be worth it though, if it means not having to see her ever again.”

“Damien,” my voice was shocked, “you would reject some poor girl just like that? Do you have a conscience? A least try and see if you can make it work. I don’t want you to regret your decision.”

“Then what?” he said almost hissing, “because it’s easier to reject somebody before you become too attached. If it wasn’t for her scent,” he groaned, “and my wolf being crazy about her, despite her actions, I would already have freed myself. Do you have any idea how infurating it is to be affected by the mate bond and finding you’re almost weak for not being able to do the one thing that makes sense?”

“Who is it Damien that has you tied in knots like this? Which pack member?” I asked softly.

He looks at me, his face contorting into an expression of pure disgust. I could see the loathing, the utter revulsion he was feeling and I swallowed hard, not used to my brother looking so cold. He was usually so carefree and easygoing.

“Marissa.”