Cliff's POV
I noticed Vanya's action, and I frowned slightly.
However, this subtle movement went unnoticed by the others at the table.
The family dinner finally came to an end, and Vanya and I walked out of the Thunder Pack hand in hand.
But as soon as we were outside, she quickly pulled her hand away.
I subconsciously looked at my empty palm, a strange discomfort welling up inside me.
After a while, Vanya asked, "Why did you come?"
I looked at her and countered, "Knowing that you would be wronged if you came alone, why did you still come by yourself?"
Vanya paused and said softly, "I asked you."
I pursed my lips and replied, "Today is Melinda's birthday. I have to go there."
"Melinda's birthday?" Vanya looked surprised, "Then why did you come here?"
She now seemed to accept that Melinda held a special place in my heart.
But hearing Vanya's tone, I couldn't help but frown and explained, "The Dalton family's dinner concerns the relationship between the Todd and Dalton families. For various reasons, I should be here."
Vanya mumbled something under her breath.
I didn't catch it and asked, "What did you say?"
Vanya remained silent, and I wondered what she was thinking.
"I said, it's Melinda's birthday. It's such an important day. Isn't it appropriate for you to accompany her?" Vanya asked again.
"You don't need to remind me," I said, my tone softening when mentioning Melinda. "Melinda has been parentless since childhood, and she has always been well-behaved. Knowing it was the Dalton family's dinner, she took the initiative to call me to handle things here first, and I promised to celebrate her birthday with her after the dinner."
As soon as I finished speaking, I realized my mistake.
I saw Vanya's nose turn slightly red, and a hint of self-mockery flashed through her eyes.
'Yes, Melinda has no parents, but so does Vanya.'
'In my eyes, is the difference in how I treat them really too stark?'
"Whatever, I'm going home," Vanya turned her head, preparing to get in the car.
Perhaps feeling guilty for saying the wrong thing, I reached out and grabbed Vanya's arm, speaking in a low voice, "Melinda is sensitive and delicate, and she is my true mate. I said I would accompany her because of my wolf."
I deliberately emphasized the word "wolf" to indicate the relationship between Melinda and me.
Vanya, however, coldly shook off my hand and said, "It has nothing to do with me. Go and accompany Melinda. She has been lonely since childhood, and on such an important day as her birthday, she must need you very much."
I thought Vanya would throw a fit, but hearing her calm words, an indescribable heaviness welled up in my heart.
After Vanya left, Elliot noticed my poor mood and asked softly, "Alpha Cliff, Ms. Coleman is still waiting for you at the hotel."
"I know," I casually replied.
Arriving at the hotel, Melinda had already meticulously arranged everything.
The room was dimly lit, emitting a warm light, creating a romantic atmosphere.
She had deliberately dressed in sexy and mature attire, quite different from her usual self.
Since seeing Vanya in that charming long dress, she seemed to have realized the gap between herself and Vanya, wanting to express her feelings to me through this opportunity.
I entered the room, and Melinda quickly turned around and, seeing it was me, threw herself into my arms.
"Melinda?"
"I thought you wouldn't come," her voice was low, filled with grievance.
I gently pushed her away and said, "It's your birthday today. I won't go back on my word since I promised."
Hearing this, Melinda's face flushed.
But when I saw her attire and the room's setup, I couldn't help but frown.
"Alpha Cliff, I..."
"Melinda, this dress isn't suitable for you," I interrupted her directly.
Melinda was stunned.
I turned on the nearby light and asked, "Do you like the birthday gift I chose for you?"
"...Very much," Melinda seemed not to have recovered from my words.
I continued, "I had Elliot book this room for you, hoping you would invite some friends to celebrate together. It's close to your school, and it's convenient for school tomorrow."
Melinda stood there dazed. I spoke coldly, "I have some work to handle tonight. You should rest early."
"Alpha Cliff!" Seeing me about to leave, Melinda hugged me tightly from behind.
She choked out, "Did I... did I do something wrong? Why are you leaving so suddenly?"
I gently removed her hands and softened my tone, "I hope you focus more on your studies and not be distracted by external factors."
Melinda's body trembled slightly, and after I turned and left, she remained standing there, at a loss.
Elliot was waiting outside the hotel. Seeing me come out after just a few minutes, he asked in confusion, "Alpha Cliff, weren't you going to celebrate Ms. Coleman's birthday?"
"Drive home," I said briefly, a mix of emotions in my heart.
I was silent in the car.
I used to see Melinda differently because of her simplicity and kindness.
I've been in the upper-class circle for so long that I understand the tactics of those women.
As my true mate, although I couldn't mark her or make her my Luna, I was willing to care for her more before rejecting her.
But I never expected her to become like this.
I said, "Have I been too good to Melinda?"