Escape my ruthless past.

Chapter Eighteen

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I stumbled backwards, my mind reeling in shock. How was this possible? Mauve, my best friend Mauve, was supposed to be gone, lost to me forever. Yet, here she was, lying in the back seat of my mother's car, her beautiful face pale and still. I felt like I was dreaming, like this was all some twisted illusion.

My mother rushed back out of the hospital, a team of doctors and nurses in tow. They quickly surrounded the car, shouting orders and asking questions. I stood frozen, unable to move or speak, as they worked to save Mauve's life.

The next few hours were a blur. I remember my mother holding my hand, her grip tight and reassuring. I remember the beeping of machines and the antiseptic smell of the hospital. I remember the sound of Mauve's name being called out, again and again, as the medical team worked to revive her.

And then, suddenly, she was awake. Her eyes fluttered open, and she gazed up at me, confusion and pain etched on her face. I felt my heart soar, felt tears of joy streaming down my face, as I bent to kiss her forehead.

"Mauve," I whispered, my voice shaking with emotion. "You're back. You're alive."

She smiled weakly, her eyes drifting closed again. "The ruins," she whispered, her voice barely audible.

* Jax's POV *

As the future alphas, we have certain responsibilities that we must fulfil, and one of them is bringing joy to the children in the children's ward every year. It is a privilege to see the children's eyes light up with excitement as we drop off presents, and it is a moment that never fails to bring a smile to my face.

This year was no different. The children were thrilled to receive their gifts, and I could not help but feel a sense of happiness as I watched them. It is moments like these that make me realize the importance of our role as future alphas and the impact we can have on our community.

As we were leaving, I noticed Rose getting into a car. I have not seen her really or spoken to her since Mauve disappeared, and I couldn't help but feel a pang of concern for her. I hope she is doing well.

Later that day, I prepared myself for the mating ball tonight. I don't believe Kele is my mate, as she is not yet 18. However, it is important to attend these events and fulfil our duties as future alphas. As I looked in the mirror, I admired my new black shoes, fitted black suit, and black shirt. I couldn't help but feel confident and ready to take on the night.

Before leaving, I checked on my brothers to ensure they were ready. We all wore similar suits, but the only difference was our hair. It's amazing how even the smallest details can make us unique.

* Rose's POV *

After an intense twelve hours at the hospital, we made the difficult decision to leave Mauve in the care of the medical staff. The doctors and nurses urged us to allow her the rest and recovery time she needed. It had been a long and emotional day, and the only sleep I had managed to get was in brief, fitful moments in the chair next to her.

Despite the challenges of the day, I couldn't help but feel a sense of relief and joy. My best friend was back, and she was on the road to recovery. The mixed emotions of the day weighed heavily on me, but I tried to focus on the positive.

As I climbed into bed, I couldn't shake the thought of the mating ball that was set to take place that night. My parents had been urging me to attend, believing it would be a welcome distraction from the stress of the day.

Prior to this, I had been excited at the prospect of meeting my mate. I had allowed myself to daydream about who it might be, but I tried not to get my hopes up too high. Now, as I lay in bed, I couldn't help but wonder if fate would align and allow me to meet my mate at the ball.

I set my alarm for a few hours later, allowing myself to drift off to sleep.

The sound of my alarm clock jolted me awake, and my mind immediately went to Mauve. I couldn't help but wonder how she was doing and how she had ended up in such a state. A sudden knock at my door brought me back to reality. My mother entered, holding the most exquisite gown I had ever seen.

The sparkly cream, floor-length dress featured a sweetheart neckline and a lace overlay that ran up the left side. I was in awe of its beauty. After a quick shower, I returned to my room and slipped into the dress. My mother helped me with my hair and makeup, and I felt like royalty.

As I descended the staircase, my father stared at me with tears in his eyes. He took several photos, capturing the moment forever. Just then, the doorbell rang. Mike, my date, stood at the door, calling me "Madam" and winking at me. He escorted me to the limo, where the rest of our friends were waiting.

"Champagne? Rosé?" Jasper asked, offering me a glass. "Oh yes, please, sir," I replied with a giggle. My parents had been right; attending this event was a good idea.

The night of the Fated Mates Ball had finally arrived, and the atmosphere in the grand hall was electric. For the wolves in attendance, this was a night of great significance and hope – the possibility of finding their fated mates, the one person with whom they would share an unbreakable bond. For the human guests, it was a night of wonder and curiosity, akin to a rite of passage into a world beyond their own.

Upon entering the hall, one could not help but be awestruck by the spectacle that lay before them. The room was adorned with lavish white shimmery cloth, strewn with blue gems that sparkled like stars in the night sky. A magnificent vase, filled to the brim with elegant white flowers and blue feathers, stood proudly in the middle of each table, creating an enchanting ambience that captivated everyone who walked through the doors.

As we took our seats at one of the beautifully decorated tables, I glanced over at the entrance, spotting the triplets walk in. Brett with Poppy, Jax with Kele, and Miles with Sapphire; I could sense their anticipation, wondering if tonight would be the night they found their fated mates.

Feeling the need to freshen up, I headed over to the drinks table, where I caught a whiff of a delightful scent. White chocolate and vanilla – the aroma was heavenly, and I couldn't help but look up to find the source of such a captivating allure. There stood Lyle the future Beta, and at that moment, I heard my wolf's gentle purr within my mind, whispering the word I had been longing to hear. "Mate."

For wolves, the concept of a fated mate transcends the superficial. It is a deep, spiritual connection – a bond that unites us with our destined partner, ensuring our soul's everlasting companionship. As I looked into Lyle's eyes, I couldn't help but wonder if the connection I felt was as powerful as the one he experienced. It was as if time itself had come to a standstill – a sensation I was sure the other wolves in attendance understood all too well.