Alisha’s POV
The next morning arrived, and I sought Nova's assistance in finding a suitable jewellery store where the ring could be rented out. I hurried back the Golden Furies myself..
As I crossed the threshold of the house, a tidal wave of memories surged forth, engulfing my mind. The familiar surroundings seemed to constrict me, their very presence serving as a potent reminder of the life I yearned to leave behind. Nevertheless, I remained steadfast in my purpose, resolute in my determination not to let nostalgia become a hindrance.
Making my way into the kitchen, I gathered the necessary ingredients to create a tempting array of snacks. Cooking had always held a special place in my heart, acting as a source of solace and contentment. Today, it provided a welcome distraction from the impending conversation with Archie.
As the savory aromas permeated the air, they stirred a mélange of emotions within me. The fragrant scents evoked memories of a time when I prepared meals for Archie, diligently researching his preferences in an effort to please him. The sight of his smile while savoring my culinary creations filled me with an indescribable sense of fulfillment. However, those memories now felt distant and bittersweet.
With the snacks now ready, I gingerly placed the cake onto a dish. Lost in my concentration, I failed to notice Archie's approach. Startled, I instinctively took a few steps backward, inadvertently stumbling and falling forward, directly into Archie's arms.
His firm grip supported me, his touch both familiar and disconcerting. I peered intently into his face, my heart quickening its pace. His eyes exuded a captivating depth, akin to the sunlit depths of the sea. Archie's thumb grazed gently against my lips, and in an instant, he leaned in, capturing me in a passionate kiss. For a fleeting moment, I became enveloped in its intoxicating allure. Yet, as I glanced at my ring finger, devoid of its once-significant band, reality abruptly snapped back into focus. I was no longer Archie's wife, and I forcefully pushed him away, desperate to break free from his embrace.
"Why did you bite me?" Archie queried, his voice tinged with anger.
"You can't do this to me now!" I retorted. Once, his kisses would have brought me immense joy, as they were a rarity since our wedding day. Yet, in that moment, his passionate embrace only conjured memories of that chilling night when he abandoned me to be with Erma. I couldn't help but imagine him kissing her in the same fervent manner.
"Is this your new tactic for seducing me?" Archie shot back.
"What on earth are you talking about?" I protested.
"You pretended to fall into my arms, hoping for a kiss," he accused.
"You're delusional! Can't you see the cake in my hands? I was cooking just moments ago, and you startled me!" Archie could be insufferable at times, self-centered and narcissistic.
"I see it. This is my favorite cake. You prepared it specifically for me, didn't you?" he declared with a smug air.
Taking a deep breath, I pleaded, "Archie, please release me. We need to talk."
His gaze locked with mine, a flicker of concern betraying itself within his eyes. "What do you mean?" he inquired.
And so, I proceeded to explain the dire situation with Joey, the rogue werewolves from the Dark Forest, and the urgent need for the protection of the Golden Crest.
"Hmm, why should I help you?" Archie responded, his tone laced with skepticism.
Offering a smile and raising the cake enticingly, I suggested, "How about this?"
Archie took a large bite of the cake as he stepped away from the kitchen. "That's not enough," he stated matter-of-factly.
"Well then, what else would you like to eat? I can make it for you now," I proposed, attempting to negotiate.
Archie arrogantly seated himself on the sofa and replied, "I haven't made up my mind yet."
Sighing in exasperation, I persisted, "Archie, I apologize for burdening you once again, but I promise this will be the last time. I am willing to compensate you financially for your assistance. After our divorce, you won't have to involve yourself any further."
Archie's face clouded over instantly. "Enough is enough, Alisha. You're fully aware that the Black Furies cannot survive without me, let alone you. How do you expect to carry on without my support? And demanding money from me? Have you earned a single cent since our marriage?"
His words sent a chill down my spine, as anger and sorrow surged through me. "I understand that in your eyes, I am inconsequential. I apologize for imposing my presence on your noble life for the past two years. Our marriage has been nothing but a stain for you, so why not embrace my request for a divorce?"
"I am the Alpha! How dare you reject me?" Archie seethed.
"If you wish to reject me, I wouldn't mind at all. I would accept it immediately," I retorted, my voice filled with resignation.
"Alisha, Joey doesn't know about your plan to leave me, does he? What will happen if he discovers your intentions?" Archie seized upon my vulnerability, fully aware of the potential consequences.
I found myself momentarily speechless. He had caught me in a vulnerable position. If Joey learned of my plans to divorce Archie, he might revoke his permission to take Grandma out of the Black Furies. Worse still, he might even contemplate discontinuing her treatment. I had a nagging feeling that Joey didn't harbor a strong emotional attachment to Grandma. In fact, I sensed a part of him didn't wish for her to wake up at all.
If Joey were to uncover my plan, he would undoubtedly pose a threat to Grandma's well-being. I couldn't afford to take that risk. Did I have no choice but to endure another year with Archie, living a facade while Erma's child grew inside her? Could I pretend not to know or even play the part of a family with them?
I simply couldn't bear it.
Suddenly, an idea sparked within me. "Archie, if we divorce, can you please delay making the news public for one year?"
Archie glared at me, his eyes burning with fury as if he wished to tear me apart. I couldn't fathom why he was so incensed. This was an excellent proposition!
"Mireya! Escort her out! I don't want to see her!" Archie growled.
"Wait! I can't leave. You haven't agreed to help the Black Furies fight against the rogue werewolves from the Dark Forest!" I implored, desperation creeping into my voice.
"Why should I listen to you? Moreover, if you're no longer my wife, I needn't concern myself with the affairs of the Black Furies. Inform Joey that he should abandon that idea," Archie coldly responded.
"How can you go back on your word after devouring my cake? You're truly heartless!" Grandma lay in her bed, relying on the medication she received. I couldn't bear losing her. I opened my mouth to beg, "Archie, please, help me just one last time. I promise you, my grandma is..."
But before I could finish my sentence, Archie cut me off. "Save it. I no longer wish to waste my time on you. Get out!" With those words, he turned and ascended the stairs without another glance.
As I watched his retreating figure, the cold truth hit me once again. Archie could never be my pillar of support, no matter the circumstances.
Devastated, tears streamed down my face as I stepped outside. If Joey discovered that Archie had refused, he would undoubtedly seek retribution by harming Grandma. Today was the day she needed her medication, and I had to gather my wits and find a solution. I could only rely on myself now. Wiping away my tears, I resolved to contemplate my next course of action.
Archie had denied me his aid. Perhaps I could seek assistance from other packs. Maybe I could hire warriors to protect the Black Furies. As for the payment, I could offer my ring as compensation. Erma had mentioned its significant value.
But where could I find ten reliable warriors for Joey? Although I held the position of Luna in the Golden Crest, my acquaintance with other werewolves was limited, mostly consisting of Omegas. Finding brave warriors would be a daunting task.
Suddenly, a face materialized in my mind.