Rejected Before My Last Breath

He glanced at me briefly, then abruptly withdrew his hand, cutting me off.

"Rory, the mark ceremony... it’ll have to wait."

My heart sank, and my eyes instantly welled up as I looked at him.

"Joey, how much longer? It’s already been three years."

"How much more do I have to wait for you?"

He turned and sat down, his brows furrowed, his voice cold and distant.

"Rory, you’ve never asked this before."

"Besides, if you’ve waited three years, what’s a little more?"

"The pack’s affairs are overwhelming me right now."

"Be understanding, Rory. Don’t make this harder for me."

My hands trembled as I clutched the edge of the bed, my chest aching. I forced a smile and looked down.

After a long pause, I swallowed my pride and stepped forward, extending my shaky hands.

"Alright, Joey, I’ll wait. No matter how long, I’ll wait."

"Focus on your duties. Don’t worry about me. I’ll be understanding."

His expression softened, but once again, he ignored my outstretched hands.

Instead, he pressed a cold, emotionless kiss to my forehead.

"Good girl, Rory. I knew you wouldn’t make this difficult for me."

"I have some things to attend to. I’ll come see you another time."

With that, he stood and moved toward the door.

My hands shook as I took one last step forward, grabbing the edge of his shirt.

He turned his head, his tone impatient. "Rory, is there something else?"

I lowered my gaze, forcing a bitter smile, and let my hands fall to my sides.

"No, nothing. Go ahead. I’ll be fine."

He didn’t look back. His movement stirred a chilly breeze as he walked away, leaving me standing there, my heart in pieces.

I stumbled a few steps forward, leaning against the doorframe, my chest aching as if it had been torn apart.

No, it can’t be. He’s just busy.

He won’t abandon me. He’ll make me his mate.

Rory, you have to believe in him, just like you did three years ago.