Eliza’s POV
Bernard raised an eyebrow. "Wow, Princess Eliza. You're damn special to have a second chance, mate," he crossed his arms over his chest. I scowled at him, thinking about how I had rejected four mates already. My father was unwell, so did I want the hassle of another mate?
Alex placed a hand on my shoulder. "We'll support you, Eliza. We'll be here for you, no matter what."
I nodded, feeling thankful to my brother. He was always there for me, even when I was stubborn and headstrong.
"I think I need some time to think," I said, turning away from them. "I'll come back and talk to you both later."
Bernard nodded. "Take all the time you need, princess."
I walked back into my father's room, feeling anxious. Father's eyes were closed; I sat beside him, taking his hand in mine.
"Father?" I whispered. "What do you think? Should I take a chance on Ryder?"
He opened his eyes, a faint smile on his lips. "You deserve happiness, Eliza. If Ryder makes you happy, then take a chance."
I felt a lump form in my throat as I looked at him. "But what about the stress? What about being tied down?"
Father's grip on my hand tightened. "Life is full of ups and downs, Eliza. Sometimes, you must take a chance and see where it leads you."
I nodded, feeling a sense of determination wash over me. Maybe Father was right. Perhaps it was time for me to retake a chance on love.
Ryder’s words echoed: "I'm here for you whenever you're ready to talk or need any help." He had been genuine and kind, and I couldn't help but feel drawn to him. Even Jasmine seemed to be excited about Ryder.
"Princess Eliza?" she said softly. "Ryder is downstairs. “He apologises for the interruption but is adamant that he has something that may help.”
My heart skipped a beat as I looked at her. What did Ryder want? Was he going to try to convince me again?
I took a deep breath and got up from my chair. Maybe it was time to face my feelings once and for all.
"Tell him I'll be down," I said to Abbie. She nodded and went off to tell him.
I sighed and rubbed my forehead. What the heck was going to happen?
As I walked downstairs, Ryder stood up from the table, his eyes locking onto mine. My heart skipped a beat as he smiled at me, and Jasmine went wild.
"Hey," he said softly.
I felt my cheeks flush as I smiled back at him. Maybe this was the start of something new for me - something beautiful, scary, and wonderful all at once. But then guilt took over me. How could I feel excited when my father was dying?
"I was thinking," he said. "I have a friend who might be able to help your father."
My interest was piqued, and I sat myself down. "Who is it?" I asked.
"His name is Dr. Adams," Ryder said, clearing his throat before continuing. "He's a renowned expert in his field. He's worked with some of the most difficult cases in the kingdom, and I think he might be able to help your father.”
I raised an eyebrow. "What makes you think that anyone can help my father? If he's so amazing at this job, why hasn't my father mentioned him?”
Ryder leaned in, his voice dropping to a whisper. "I've heard rumours that Dr Adams has developed a new treatment for terminal illnesses. It's still experimental, but from what I've heard, it's shown promising results."
"What do you mean 'experimental'?" I asked, my mind racing with possibilities.
Ryder shrugged. "Well, it's not widely available yet, and it's not without risks. But if anyone can help your father, Dr. Adams might be the one. It's worth a try.”
I felt my heart pounding in my chest as I considered the possibilities. Could this be the answer to our prayers?
"Where is Dr. Adams?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.
"He's in okay", Ryder said. "But he's willing to come and see your father if you're willing to let him try."
I hesitated for a moment, weighing the pros and cons. But then I looked at Ryder and saw the sincerity in his eyes.
"Okay," I said finally. "Call him.”
Ryder nodded, a smile spreading across his face. "I'll make arrangements, and if this works out, then maybe you will let me finish that dance. We never got to finish at the ball.” he winked and stood up to leave but leant over to kiss my cheeks first.
My heart skipped a beat, and my wolf howled in my mind. I smiled to myself, and my skin tingled from his touch.
Alex came bounding into the room, demanding to know what was happening and why Ryder was returning so soon.
“He's going to help our father.”