Derek's POV
This sentence represented that I completely forgave Andrea for her past actions.
She was a patient back then. She was in great pain, let alone the fact that she was my mother.
I figured that at worst, we would simply go our separate ways and never cross paths again, and that was how I would spend the rest of my life.
I didn't expect Andrea to figure it out on her own, suddenly awakened and reflecting on the past.
After everything I had been through with Tabitha, all I wanted was to cherish my family.
Andrea got into the passenger seat, while Tabitha and I sat side by side.
Tabitha smiled at me, "Why did you come?"
"I'm here to pick you up. Didn't get enough to eat, did you? Once we're home, I'll cook something for you," I said to the woman whose every thought and glance was all about me.
Tabitha smiled sweetly, "Okay. I believe Andrea's words. You and Ambrose are different."
The pack guard handed in water and a blanket from the window, and I asked with concern, "Are you feeling unwell?"
"Don't worry. I ate too much ice just now and my stomach's been bothering me. I just need to rest for a bit," Tabitha reassured me. "I was really looking forward to a nice meal, but Ambrose and Phoebe threw a wrench in that, so my stomach's still a bit upset."
Tabitha didn't continue talking. She quickly took a sip of water instead.
Seeing that I was still observing her, she gently nudged my arm and said, "I am fine. Why are you so worried? I promised Andrea that I would get a thorough check-up after the birthday banquet."
"Are you really okay?" I confirmed once again.
"Do I look like I am in bad health?"
Tabitha had mentioned her stomach pain a few times recently, but with her stomach issues flaring up again and again, it was pretty normal for her to feel pain every day.
Thinking about the past check-ups that indicated nothing serious, I somewhat eased my mind and had a box of pastries brought out before the car started.
"Let's grab a bite to eat first, and then we'll be home soon."
"Okay," Tabitha replied without hesitation.
At this time of day, the roads weren't congested, and Tabitha was leisurely enjoying the scenery outside the window.
She seemed to prefer this city over Seattle.
With the breeze, it was very refreshing, and the vegetation on both sides of the road looked very beautiful.
"Do you like it?"
"Yeah, it's completely different from the style of Seattle. Even the flowers on the roadside are particularly abundant."
"Seaside Road is more beautiful. Let's go back from Seaside Road."
"Yes, Alpha Derek."
The driver changed the route, and Tabitha rolled down the window to let in the refreshing sea breeze. It seemed to lift her spirits considerably.
Up ahead was a long downhill stretch, and the driver was preparing to slow down. The moment he pressed the brake pedal, his expression changed.
His fingers tightened around the steering wheel, but luckily he had undergone special training, so he remained calm throughout.
"Alpha Derek, I have some bad news. The brakes failed."
Tabitha paused, with a bite of the pastry in her mouth, and asked, "What did you say?"
"The brakes aren't responding at all. We're coming up on a long downhill, and our speed will pick up. I'll hold the steering wheel steady, but you and Alpha Derek need to grab onto something."
I comforted the two of them, "Mom, Tabitha, don't be afraid. I will contact someone to solve it immediately."
I immediately called the police, demanding that they immediately seal off the road, control other vehicles, and prepare for cushioning and isolation in advance.
All the bodyguard cars lined up in the left lane, preventing other vehicles from overtaking.
As long as the oncoming vehicles followed the prescribed route, there would be no issues.
Even though I had already made arrangements, Tabitha was still very nervous.
Seeing her pale face, I immediately embraced Tabitha and said, "Don't be afraid. I'm here. Nothing will happen."